Dengue fever is a viral infection that is transmitted by the bite of an Aedes mosquito infected with a dengue virus. Symptoms of dengue fever usually begin four to six days after infection and last for up to 10 days. Most people with dengue have mild or no symptoms and will get better in 1-2 weeks. However, some people develop severe dengue and need care in a hospital. Severe dengue can cause shock, internal bleeding, and even death.
Symptoms of dengue fever in adults include:
- Sudden, high fever
- Severe headaches
- Pain behind the eyes
- Severe joint and muscle pain
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Rash
- Swollen glands
Symptoms of severe dengue fever, which is a life-threatening emergency, can develop quickly. Warning signs usually begin the first day or two after your fever goes away, and may include:
- Severe stomach pain
- Persistent vomiting
- Bleeding from your gums or nose
- Blood in your vomit or poop
- Frequent vomiting
- Throwing up blood or blood in your poop (stool)
- Nose bleeds or bleeding gums
- Extreme tiredness or restlessness
If you or a family member has any of the above symptoms, immediately go to a local clinic or emergency room.
