Dengue
General Medicine · Infectious & Parasitic
Moderate
Severity
Common — India reports well over 100,000 cases annually, with sharp seasonal spikes after monsoon
Prevalence
No
Contagious
General Medicine
Specialist
📖What is Dengue?
Dengue is a mosquito-borne viral infection caused by the dengue virus, transmitted primarily by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, which breeds in stagnant water around homes. It is endemic across much of India and tends to surge sharply during and after the monsoon season when mosquito breeding conditions are favourable. The illness typically presents with sudden high fever accompanied by severe body pain, giving it the historical name "breakbone fever." While most cases are self-limiting, a small proportion progress to severe dengue with plasma leakage, bleeding, and organ impairment, which can be life-threatening without prompt medical care. Early recognition and close monitoring of warning signs are critical to preventing complications.
Severity
Moderate
Specialty
General Medicine
Prevalence
Common — India reports well over 100,000 cases annually, with sharp seasonal spikes after monsoon
Contagious
No
Category
Infectious & Parasitic
Treatment
Available
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Warning Signs — When to Seek Immediate Help
- Sudden severe worsening of Dengue symptoms not responding to prescribed treatment
- Difficulty breathing, chest tightness, or rapid heartbeat associated with Dengue
- High fever (above 39 °C / 102 °F) that does not improve with medication after 24 hours
- Confusion, altered consciousness, severe weakness, or inability to stand or speak clearly
- Signs of rapidly spreading infection — increasing redness, swelling, or skin changes
- Symptoms occurring in infants, elderly (65+), pregnant women, or immunocompromised individuals
- No improvement after 48–72 hours of prescribed Dengue treatment
- New or different symptoms suggesting spread to other organ systems
🤒Common Symptoms
🔬Causes & Risk Factors
- 1Caused by infection with one of four dengue virus serotypes
- 2transmitted through the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito that breeds in clean
- 3stagnant water in containers
- 4coolers
- 5and discarded items around homes. A second infection with a different serotype carries a higher risk of severe dengue due to antibody-dependent enhancement. Risk increases in densely populated urban areas with poor water storage practices and during the monsoon and post-monsoon months.
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🩺How Doctors Diagnose Dengue
- 1Physical examination and complete medical history review by a General Medicine specialist
- 2Laboratory investigations — blood tests, urine analysis, and culture studies as indicated
- 3Imaging studies such as X-ray, ultrasound, MRI, or CT scan depending on the suspected cause
- 4Biopsy, endoscopy, or other invasive diagnostic procedures if required
- 5Specialist consultation and further tests based on initial findings
- 6Regular monitoring and follow-up to assess disease progression and treatment response
💊Treatment Options
- 1There is no specific antiviral treatment for dengue
- 2management focuses on supportive care including adequate fluid replacement
- 3rest
- 4and paracetamol for fever and pain
- 5while aspirin and NSAIDs are avoided due to bleeding risk. Patients are closely monitored with regular platelet counts and haematocrit checks to detect early signs of plasma leakage or severe dengue. Hospitalisation with intravenous fluids or blood product transfusion is required for severe cases showing warning signs such as persistent vomiting
- 6bleeding
- 7or abdominal pain.
🛡️Prevention of Dengue
- 1Eliminating stagnant water around homes
- 2using mosquito repellents and nets
- 3wearing full-sleeved clothing
- 4installing window screens
- 5community fogging during outbreaks
- 6regularly emptying and cleaning water-storage containers
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Disease Progression Timeline
Onset
Dengue begins with mild or non-specific symptoms that may be easy to overlook. Early self-care may help at this stage.
Development
If untreated, symptoms gradually worsen. Medical evaluation is recommended when symptoms persist or affect daily activities.
Treatment Phase
With proper diagnosis and treatment from a General Medicine specialist, most patients experience significant improvement.
Recovery & Maintenance
Many patients achieve full recovery or effective long-term management with regular check-ups and healthy lifestyle habits.
Dengue Treatment Cost in India (2024–25)
| Service | Govt / Budget | Private |
|---|---|---|
| General Medicine Consultation | ₹300 – ₹1,500 | ₹1,500 – ₹5,000 |
| Diagnostic Tests (Basic) | ₹500 – ₹3,000 | ₹3,000 – ₹10,000 |
| Advanced Imaging (MRI/CT) | ₹2,000 – ₹6,000 | ₹6,000 – ₹25,000 |
| Hospitalisation (if required) | ₹5,000 – ₹20,000 | ₹25,000 – ₹1 lakh |
| Medications (Monthly) | ₹300 – ₹2,000 | ₹2,000 – ₹10,000 |
* Costs are approximate estimates for India (2024–25). Actual prices vary by city, hospital, and patient condition. Ayushman Bharat / CGHS may cover eligible treatments.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Dengue?+
Dengue is a mosquito-borne viral infection caused by the dengue virus, transmitted primarily by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, which breeds in stagnant water around homes. It is endemic across much of India and tends to surge sharply during and after the monsoon season when mosquito breeding conditions are favourable. The illness typically presents with sudden high fever accompanied by severe body pain, giving it the historical name "breakbone fever." While most cases are self-limiting, a small proportion progress to severe dengue with plasma leakage, bleeding, and organ impairment, which can be life-threatening without prompt medical care. Early recognition and close monitoring of warning signs are critical to preventing complications.
What are the main symptoms of Dengue?+
The most common symptoms include: Sudden high fever; severe headache; pain behind the eyes; intense joint and muscle pain. Early recognition is key to prompt diagnosis and effective treatment.
Is Dengue contagious?+
No, Dengue is not contagious. It cannot spread through casual contact. However, certain risk factors and genetic predispositions may increase susceptibility.
How is Dengue treated?+
Treatment options include: There is no specific antiviral treatment for dengue; management focuses on supportive care including adequate fluid replacement; rest. Treatment should always be guided by a qualified General Medicine specialist. Do not self-medicate.
Can Dengue be prevented?+
While Dengue cannot always be fully prevented, several measures can reduce risk: Eliminating stagnant water around homes; using mosquito repellents and nets; wearing full-sleeved clothing.
When should I see a doctor for Dengue?+
Consult a General Medicine specialist if symptoms persist for more than a few days, worsen despite home care, or significantly affect your daily activities. Early diagnosis leads to better outcomes.
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⚕️ Medical Disclaimer
This page is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional. In emergencies, call 112.