Dengue fever is caused by a virus in the Flaviviridae family and is carried by female mosquitoes of the Aedes species. The chance of catching dengue directly from another person, without a mosquito intermediary, is low in practice. This is based on current medical understanding from hematology experts who study infectious diseases.
Direct transmission from person to person can occur only through blood transfusion or organ donation from a patient in the acute phase of fever, an event that is exceedingly uncommon in real-world settings.
The virus spreads when a mosquito feeds on an infected person or animal. The virus then travels with the mosquito’s blood and can be transmitted to a new person after another bite. This cycle explains why control of mosquito populations is essential for reducing dengue risk.
The typical incubation period ranges from about three days to two weeks. Early symptoms include a sudden fever reaching up to 39 to 40 degrees Celsius, severe headache, and a red or spotted skin rash. Eye pain, nausea, vomiting, and aching joints and muscles are common as well. If the infection progresses to a severe hemorrhagic form, nosebleeds, bloody diarrhea, and other signs of internal bleeding may appear and require urgent medical attention.
Treatment for dengue fever focuses on supportive care. Rest is important, and fluids should be maintained to prevent dehydration. Doctors usually prescribe fever-reducing and pain-relieving medications, along with measures to support blood pressure if needed, to help eliminate metabolic toxins and improve liver function. Antihistamines may also be used to ease symptoms.
Recovery typically occurs within one to two weeks from the onset of illness. However, signs of a severe form call for immediate ambulance dispatch. In very rare cases, a fatal outcome can occur, underscoring the importance of monitoring and timely medical care during the illness.
After an infection, antibodies that the body develops offer protection only against the same viral serotype. There are four distinct serotypes of the dengue virus, and getting infected again with a different serotype can lead to a more severe illness. This phenomenon highlights the risk of reinfection and the need for ongoing prevention, especially in areas with active transmission cycles.
In some popular travel destinations, dengue outbreaks have surged, emphasizing the global relevance of mosquito control, personal protection, and awareness of symptoms for travelers and residents alike. Keeping informed about local health advisories and preventive measures remains important for anyone living in or visiting dengue-affected regions.