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InfectiousICD-10: A90An estimated 390 million infections occur annually worldwide

Dengue Fever

Also known as: Dengue, Breakbone Fever, Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever

Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne tropical disease caused by the dengue virus, transmitted primarily by Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. It causes a wide spectrum of illness from mild fever to life-threatening dengue hemorrhagic fever and dengue shock syndrome. Dengue is endemic in over 100 countries and represents one of the fastest-growing infectious diseases globally, with an estimated 390 million infections per year.

Symptoms

High fever (104°F / 40°C)
Severe headache, especially behind the eyes
Severe muscle and joint pain (breakbone fever)
Nausea and vomiting
Skin rash appearing 2-5 days after fever onset
Fatigue
Mild bleeding (nosebleeds, gum bleeding, easy bruising)
In severe dengue: abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, bleeding, organ damage

Causes

  • Infection with one of four dengue virus serotypes (DENV-1 through DENV-4)
  • Transmitted through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes
  • Second infection with a different serotype increases risk of severe dengue

Risk Factors

  • Living in or traveling to tropical and subtropical regions
  • Prior infection with a different dengue serotype
  • Young age (children are more vulnerable to severe dengue)
  • Pregnancy
  • Living in areas with poor mosquito control

Diagnosis

  • NS1 antigen test (detects virus in first 1-7 days)
  • Dengue IgM and IgG antibody tests
  • PCR testing for viral RNA
  • Complete blood count (low platelet count, elevated hematocrit)

Treatment

  • No specific antiviral treatment—management is supportive
  • Adequate hydration (oral or intravenous fluids)
  • Acetaminophen for pain and fever (avoid NSAIDs and aspirin—bleeding risk)
  • Close monitoring of platelet count and hematocrit
  • Hospitalization for severe dengue with IV fluid resuscitation
  • Blood transfusion for significant bleeding

Prevention

  • Use insect repellent containing DEET or picaridin
  • Wear long sleeves and pants in endemic areas
  • Eliminate standing water where mosquitoes breed
  • Use bed nets and window screens
  • Dengue vaccine (Dengvaxia) available in some countries for previously infected individuals

When to See a Doctor

  • You develop high fever and severe body aches after traveling to a dengue-endemic area
  • You experience warning signs of severe dengue (abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, bleeding)
  • Symptoms worsen after fever subsides (critical phase, days 3-7)
  • You notice signs of shock (rapid pulse, cold extremities, confusion)—seek emergency care

Frequently Asked Questions

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Medical Disclaimer: This content is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.

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