Dengue

Dengue (also known as dengue fever) is an infection caused by a virus. People are infected when bitten by infected mosquitos. Dengue is not spread from person to person. It is common in warm, wet areas of the world. Outbreaks occur in the rainy season. Dengue is rare in the United States, but has been reported in some southern states.

Symptoms include a high fever, headaches, joint and muscle pain, vomiting, and a rash.

There is no specific treatment for dengue fever. Most people recover within 2 weeks. Until then, drinking lots of fluids, resting and taking non-aspirin fever-reducing medicines might help. People with the more severe forms of dengue usually need to go to the hospital and get IV fluids.

There is no vaccine for preventing dengue. The most effective protective measures are those that avoid mosquito bites. To lower your risk when traveling in dengue-prone countries wear protective clothing and insect repellent.

Four different dengue viruses are known to cause dengue fever. Dengue fever occurs when a person is bitten by a mosquito that is infected with the virus.

See a doctor for high fever, severe headache, and joint or muscle pain after travel to a tropical area. Seek emergency care for severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, bleeding gums or nose, or blood in vomit or stool.