There are four subtypes (called “serotypes”) of dengue. Each serotype can infect you only once, but infection with one serotype doesn’t provide immunity against the other serotypes, so you can still become infected by the other serotypes of dengue. With your first dengue infection, you may have few or no symptoms. Unfortunately, the risk for severe dengue increases with each infection.
FeverHeadache and pain behind the eyesSevere muscle and joint pain (the source of dengue’s nickname, “breakbone fever”)Extreme fatigueRashBloody stoolsNausea and vomiting
After defervescence, people either start to get better or they get much worse, developing severe dengue.
Abdominal pain or tendernessPersistent vomitingLethargy or restlessnessMucosal bleeding, such as bleeding gums or nosebleedsLiver enlargementFluid retention
If a person is showing neurological signs of infection, such as meningitis or encephalopathy, a test of the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) may also be performed, in addition to testing the person’s blood.
Prognosis of Dengue Fever
Pain relievers and fever reducers that don’t make bleeding worse may be taken, such as Tylenol (acetaminophen).
Prevention of Dengue Fever
Preventing Mosquito Bites
The primary way to prevent infection with dengue is to prevent mosquito bites in geographic regions where dengue is present. Light-colored clothing and insect repellent can help, as can window screens and mosquito netting.
Source Reduction at Mosquito Breeding Sites
Infecting Mosquitoes With Competing Bacteria
Dengvaxia Vaccine
The FDA has approved the vaccine to be given to people who:
Are age 9 to 16Live in areas where dengue is endemic; endemic areas under the FDA’s purview include the U.S. territories of American Samoa, Guam, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin IslandsHave previously been infected with dengue, as shown by medical records or a blood test that shows immunity
WHO provides a global, comprehensive look at dengue and severe dengue. In addition to a fact sheet on the topic, WHO has the latest news on the disease and a helpful Q&A page. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) The CDC has detailed info on dengue — covering symptoms and warning signs to watch for — as well as excellent advice on prevention and mosquito control. World Mosquito Program The World Mosquito Program is a nonprofit research and educational organization that is working to eradicate diseases spread by Aedes mosquitoes worldwide.
