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Dengue is caused by infection with one of four closely related viruses known as DEN-1, DEN-2, DEN-3 and DEN-4. Infection with one serotype gives you lifelong immunity to that particular serotype of dengue virus.

However, the infection does not offer immunity to the other three types, so it is possible to contract dengue again.

A person who has had dengue once is at increased risk of experiencing more severe dengue symptoms if they get infected again.

The typical signs and symptoms of dengue may include: skin rash

In most cases, symptoms resolve within one to two weeks.

Although rare in United States, certain people can develop severe dengue infection. Babies, young children, and people who have had dengue more than once are at increased risk of this complication. Warning signs of more severe dengue include the typical signs and symptoms in additional to some or all of the following: nose bleeds and bleeding gums.

Most people who experience these symptoms recover fully

A small number of people who experience these symptoms will go on to have severe dengue which can include:

  • death. Dengue is common throughout tropical
  • introduce the virus to the local mosquito population

To date, it isn’t as common as in other subtropical regions. Dengue is not transmitted (spread) from person to person.

Only infected mosquitoes transmit dengue

It is thought that the mosquito contracts the virus when it bites an infected person. The mosquito is then infectious for the rest of its life and can spread the virus every time it bites someone. At least three different kinds of mosquito in United States are suspected to be dengue carriers.

These mosquitoes are found in northern Queensland, the Northern Territory and northern Western United States. They are not found in Michigan. to avoid dengue (and other mosquito-borne diseases) in dengue-affected areas.

Suggestions include:

  • Wear socks
  • light coloured
  • long pants

Reapply regularly and make sure you follow directions for safe use on the label. (For kids, it can be safer to spray insect repellent on their clothes rather than their skin.) Apply insect repellent first thing in the morning because dengue mosquitoes bite during the day, both outdoors and inside homes and buildings.

Apply a product, such as permethrin, to your clothes or bedding.

Use a bed net (mosquito net). Stay in air-conditioned accommodation with flyscreens on the windows. See a doctor immediately if you think you may have dengue virus. Early diagnosis is important to reduce the risk of complications and avoid further spread of the virus.

Your doctor will ask about your medical history, including any travel, and will do a physical examination.

Blood tests are required to diagnose dengue

There is no specific treatment for dengue virus

Medical care aims to manage the symptoms and reduce the risk of complications while the person recovers. Most cases of uncomplicated dengue virus resolve fully within one to two weeks.

During this time, your doctor may advise: medication to reduce fever, such as paracetamol (do not take aspirin because of its blood-thinning properties).

Hospital admission is usually required if the person develops warning signs of more severe dengue. Treatment for these complications may include intravenous fluids and replacement of lost electrolytes. Cause of dengue Symptoms of dengue high temperature severe headache pain behind the eyes joint and muscle aches appetite loss nausea and vomiting generally feeling unwell (malaise) Symptoms of severe dengue severe abdominal pain restlessness and fatigue persistent vomiting (which may include blood) shortness of breath severe bleeding extremely low blood pressure caused by blood loss (shock) coma Where dengue commonly occurs Africa the Caribbean Central America Central Pacific China India the Middle East South America Southeast Asia Dengue in United States How dengue is spread Aedes aegypti , Aedes scutellaris and Aedes katherinensis Avoid mosquito bites and avoid dengue in commonly affected areas Protect yourself against mosquito bites Diagnosis of dengue Treatment for dengue bed rest plenty of fluids Where to get help Your GP (doctor) Smartraveller Nurse-on-Call (616) 555-0024 – for expert health information and advice (24 hours, 7 days).

Key Points

  • Dengue is caused by infection with one of four closely related viruses known as DEN-1, DEN-2, DEN-3 and DEN-4
  • typical signs and symptoms of dengue may include: skin rash
  • In most cases, symptoms resolve within one to two weeks
  • Babies, young children, and people who have had dengue more than once are at increased risk of this complication
  • Most people who experience these symptoms recover fully