Dengue season: warning signs to know
Why paracetamol, not aspirin; and the signs that mean go to hospital now.
Dengue spreads through the bite of an infected mosquito. It usually starts with a sudden high fever, headache, pain behind the eyes and body aches. Most people recover with rest and fluids, but a few become seriously ill, often just as the fever comes down.
At home
- Rest and drink plenty of fluids.
- Paracetamol for fever, as the label says. Avoid aspirin and ibuprofen-type painkillers unless a doctor advises them.
- See a doctor for a check-up and the tests they advise.
Go to hospital now if
- Severe belly pain or repeated vomiting.
- Bleeding from the gums or nose, blood in vomit or stool, or black stools.
- Very tired, restless or confused, cold clammy skin, or very little urine.
Prevention
Empty standing water around the home every few days, sleep under a mosquito net and cover arms and legs during the day.
This article is general information and not a substitute for an in-person examination. In an emergency call 999 or go to the nearest hospital.
