Symptoms and timing
Dengue can cause fever, headache, muscle or joint pain, nausea and rash. Other infections can cause the same symptoms. Tell the clinician when the fever started, what medicines you took and whether you may have had mosquito exposure. Do not try to diagnose dengue from a photo or a single symptom.
| Stage | What may happen | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| First days of fever | Fever, headache, muscle pain or nausea | Arrange medical assessment and ask which test fits the illness day |
| As fever falls | Some patients develop warning signs | Watch closely for abdominal pain, repeated vomiting or bleeding |
| Recovery | Strength and appetite return gradually | Follow the clinician's plan and attend any requested follow-up |
Which tests are used
WHO's 2025 laboratory guidance describes test choice by time since symptom onset. During the first seven days, clinicians may use a molecular test and/or NS1 antigen testing. After that, IgM antibody testing becomes more useful. A negative early test does not by itself rule out dengue; a clinician may request another test or assess other causes.
Medicines and home care
Do not take aspirin or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicines such as ibuprofen when dengue is suspected unless a clinician specifically directs you. They can increase bleeding risk. Ask a doctor or pharmacist whether paracetamol is suitable for you and follow the product label. Drink fluids if you can keep them down. Do not start antibiotics for dengue; antibiotics do not treat a virus.
Warning signs: seek urgent care
| Sign | Action |
|---|---|
| Severe or worsening abdominal pain | Go to an emergency department |
| Repeated vomiting or inability to keep fluids down | Seek urgent medical care |
| Bleeding from the nose or gums, blood in vomit or stool | Seek emergency care now |
| Fainting, severe drowsiness or unusual agitation | Call emergency services or go to hospital |
| Difficulty breathing, cold or clammy skin | Call emergency services now |
Children, pregnant people and anyone with a chronic condition should contact a clinician early. Do not wait for the fever to rise again if a warning sign appears.
Reduce mosquito bites
- Use an insect repellent according to its label.
- Wear clothing that covers arms and legs when practical.
- Use window screens or a bed net where needed.
- Remove standing water around the home when safe to do so.
Questions and answers
How soon after a bite do symptoms start?
The time varies. A clinician should assess fever rather than infer dengue from the bite date.
Which dengue tests should I request?
Tell the clinician the first day of symptoms. Test choice depends on illness stage and clinical context.
Can I take ibuprofen?
Avoid it when dengue is suspected unless a clinician specifically tells you otherwise.
Can I treat dengue at home?
Only a clinician can assess whether home monitoring is appropriate. Warning signs require urgent care.
Do I need antibiotics?
Antibiotics do not treat dengue. Use them only if a clinician diagnoses a bacterial infection and prescribes them.