Dengue fever

Dengue fever is a viral infection that causes a severe flu-like illness. It is commonly found in more than 100 countries worldwide and can occur in both rural and urban areas. About half of the world’s population is thought to live in areas with a risk of dengue fever.

Symptoms

Fever, intense headache, eye pain, joint pains and a rash - although about 75% of infections are free of symptoms

How do you catch dengue fever?

Dengue fever is transmitted by a mosquito that mainly bites during the daytime.

Incubation period

usually 4 – 7 days

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is usually based on the symptoms and confirmed by blood tests.

Prevention

Dengue fever is prevented by avoiding mosquito bites, through use of an effective insect repellent and wearing long, loose-fitting clothing.

Treatment

There is no cure, so treatment consists of nursing care, pain killers and management of any complications.