Dengue Fever: Warning Signs and Prevention

Dengue cases in Pakistan usually rise after the monsoon, when water collects in containers and pools of standing water. Pakistan's National Institute of Health also warns that floods increase the risk. Dengue spreads through the bite of an infected mosquito. Knowing the warning signs helps you act fast.

How does dengue spread?

Dengue is spread mainly by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, which bites during the daytime. It breeds in standing water, such as water left in containers, debris and puddles.

A person with dengue can pass the virus to mosquitoes from about 2 days before symptoms start until 2 days after the fever ends. So protect a sick family member from mosquito bites too, to stop it spreading to others at home.

What are the symptoms of dengue?

Symptoms usually start 4 to 10 days after the bite and last 2 to 7 days. They can include:

• High fever, which can reach 40°C (104°F)
• Severe headache
• Pain behind the eyes
• Muscle, joint or bone pain
• Nausea and vomiting
• Swollen glands
• A rash

Most people recover within one to two weeks.

What are the warning signs of severe dengue?

This is the most important part to remember. Warning signs often appear 24 to 48 hours after the fever has gone away, when people think they are getting better. Watch for:

• Severe stomach pain or tenderness
• Vomiting three or more times in 24 hours
• Bleeding from the nose or gums
• Vomiting blood, or blood in the stool
• Fast breathing
• Feeling extremely tired, restless or weak
• Pale, cold skin

People who have had dengue before are at higher risk of severe dengue if they are infected again.

Caring for someone with dengue at home

There is no specific medicine that kills the dengue virus, so care focuses on easing symptoms. Rest and drink plenty of fluids. WHO and Pakistan's National Institute of Health advise using paracetamol for fever and pain and avoiding aspirin and ibuprofen, because these can raise the risk of bleeding. Always follow your doctor's advice about any medicine.

How to prevent dengue

Stop mosquitoes breeding

• Empty, clean and cover water containers at least once a week.
• Get rid of items and debris around the home that collect water.
• Keep water tanks and stored water tightly covered.

Avoid bites

• Wear long sleeves and long trousers, especially during the day.
• Use a mosquito repellent containing DEET, picaridin or IR3535.
• Fit mesh screens on windows and doors.
• Use insecticide-treated nets, including for children who sleep during the day.

Is there a dengue vaccine?

WHO says one dengue vaccine is licensed in some countries and is recommended only for children aged 6 to 16 in areas with high transmission. Other vaccines are still being studied. Preventing bites remains the main protection.

When to get emergency help

Severe dengue is a medical emergency. Go to a hospital immediately, or call Rescue 1122, if you notice any warning sign above, especially in the days after the fever ends. Also see a doctor promptly if you have a high fever during dengue season, so the illness can be checked and followed.