What are the symptoms of dengue?
The symptoms of dengue can vary but often include:
- High fever
- Severe headache
- Pain behind the eyes
- Joint and muscle pain
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Skin rash
- Bleeding from the nose or gums (in severe cases)
What causes dengue?
Dengue is caused by a virus that is spread when an infected mosquito bites a person. The Aedes aegypti mosquito is the main carrier of this virus.
How common is dengue?
Dengue is common in many tropical and subtropical regions. It is estimated that there are millions of cases of dengue each year, especially during rainy seasons when mosquito populations increase.
Who is more likely to get dengue?
Some people are at higher risk of getting dengue, including:
- Individuals living in or travelling to tropical areas
- People aged over 65 or those with weak immune systems
- Those who have had dengue before, as they may be more susceptible to severe forms
How can I treat dengue?
Currently, there is no specific medicine for dengue. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and includes:
- Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids
- Taking pain relievers like paracetamol (avoid aspirin as it can worsen bleeding)
- Resting to help the body recover
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How to prevent dengue?
Preventing dengue mainly involves avoiding mosquito bites. Here are some tips:
- Wear long sleeves and trousers
- Use insect repellent on exposed skin
- Stay in places with air conditioning or that use window screens
- Remove standing water where mosquitoes breed
How quickly can I recover from dengue?
Recovery time varies, but many people start to feel better within a week. However, it can take a while to fully regain strength.
What’s the outlook for dengue?
Most cases of dengue are mild and recover without any lasting damage. However, severe dengue can be life-threatening and requires urgent medical attention.
Final thoughts
Dengue is a serious illness, but with prompt treatment and prevention, it can be managed effectively. If you have any concerns or symptoms, speak to your GP or healthcare provider.
