This viral illness has no cure. It is spread by predominantly day time biting mosquitoes. The disease will incubate for three to eight days. A rapid fever, headache, muscle and bones pains will develop. Often a rash and fever will recur a few days after improving from initial illness, possibly along with other symptoms. The illness will normally resolve completely, though it is common to feel unusually tired for some time afterwards.
In some cases dengue can progress to a haemorrhagic form, potentially with shock, which can be fatal. Recent experience during the outbreaks in Central and South America suggested an incidence of DHF is around 2% with around 1-2% of these cases being fatal. DHF is more common in children and usually occurs during second attacks, perhaps with a different serotype.
The only way to protect yourself against dengue fever, is to prevent bites from mosquitoes. As the breed that pass this disease on are day time biters, treated bed nets are of limited value, though they are essential in preventing other diseases such as Japanese encephalitis and malaria. Spraying exposed skin with 40-50% DEET, and covering up with clothing treated with a permethrin fabric treatment will give you the best protection available. If you are staying at your destination for some time, it would be sensible to try to eliminate mosquito breeding grounds from around your accommodation where possible (small puddles and collections of water).
If you would like to discuss any issue with a Travel Nurse, please contact The Travel Clinic Ltd, on 01223 367362 or enquiries@travelclinic.ltd.uk
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