Dengue season: warning signs to know

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.