Dengue
Severe Dengue
Severe dengue
In rare cases dengue can be very serious and potentially life threatening. This is known as severe dengue or dengue haemorrhagic fever.
People who've had dengue before are thought to be most at risk of severe dengue if they become infected again. It's very rare for travellers to get it.
Signs of severe dengue can include:
- severe tummy (abdominal) pain
- a swollen tummy
- persistent vomiting and vomiting blood
- bleeding gums or bleeding under the skin
- breathing difficulties or fast breathing
- cold, clammy skin
- a weak butfast pulse
- drowsiness or loss of consciousness
If you have symptoms of severe dengue, call the local emergency number for an ambulance immediately.
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 4 Jan 2017
Introduction
Dengue is a viral infection spread by mosquitoes. It's widespread in many parts of the world. In most people the infection is mild and passes in about a week without causing any lasting problems. But in rare cases it can be very serious and potentially life threatening.
Symptoms
Symptoms of dengue usually develop suddenly 4 to 10 days after becoming infected like; a high temperature (fever), severe headaches, pain behind the eyes, etc. The symptoms normally pass in about a week, although you may feel tired and slightly unwell for several weeks afterwards.
Severe Dengue
In rare cases dengue can be very serious and potentially life threatening. This is known as severe dengue or dengue haemorrhagic fever. People who've had dengue before are thought to be most at risk of severe dengue if they become infected again.
Prevention
There's currently no widely available vaccine for dengue. You can prevent it by avoiding being bitten by mosquitoes, use insect repellent, wear loose but protective clothing, etc.
Treatment
There's no cure or specific treatment for dengue. Treatment involves relieving your symptoms while the infection runs its course. You can usually look after yourself at home. Take paracetamol to relieve pain and fever, drink plenty of fluids, etc.
Patient story: "I wouldn't want to repeat the experience of having dengue."
The story of Hugh Wilson, who came down with dengue while on holiday in Thailand. Hugh and his partner were staying in Krabi insouthern Thailand when Hugh started to experience symptoms.
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