Dengue fever is a flu-like illness spread by the bite of an infected mosquito.
 

Dengue hemorrhagic fever is a severe, often fatal, complication of dengue fever.
 

Dengue is spread by the bite of an Aedes mosquito. The mosquito transmits the disease by biting an infected person and then biting someone else.
 

The mosquitoes that transmit dengue live among humans and breed in discarded tires, flower pots, old oil drums, and water storage containers close to human dwellings.
 

Unlike the mosquitoes that cause malaria, dengue mosquitoes bite during the day. Hence, there should be round the clock protection against mosquitoes.
 

Dengue is diagnosed by a blood test.
 

Dengue fever usually starts suddenly with a high fever, rash, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, and muscle and joint pain. The severity of the joint pain has given dengue the name “breakbone fever.” Nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite are common. A rash usually appears 3 to 4 days after the start of the fever. The illness can last up to 10 days, but complete recovery can take as long as a month. Older children and adults are usually sicker than young children.
 

There is no specific treatment for dengue. Persons with dengue fever should rest and drink plenty of fluids. They should be kept away from mosquitoes for the protection of others. Dengue hemorrhagic fever is treated by replacing lost fluids. Some patients need transfusions to control bleeding.
 

Use mosquito repellents on skin and clothing.
 

When outdoors during times that mosquitoes are biting, wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants tucked into socks.
 

Avoid heavily populated residential areas.
 

When indoors, stay in air-conditioned or screened areas. Use bednets if sleeping areas are not screened or air-conditioned.
 

If you have symptoms of dengue, report your travel history.