Dengue

Treatment

Source: NHS

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Treatment for dengue

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.

The following can help:

  • take paracetamol to relieve pain and fever avoid aspirin or ibuprofen, as these can cause bleeding problems in people with dengue
  • drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration if you're currently abroad, only drink bottled water from properly sealed bottles
  • get plenty of rest

You should start to feel better in around a week, although it may be a few weeks before you feel your normal self again. Get medical advice if your symptoms don't improve.

Articles for Dengue

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.