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Dengue Fever

A viral disease caused by the dengue virus, transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, presenting with high fever, muscle pain, and bleeding in severe forms.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Internal Medicine department. Book Appointment →

What is Dengue Fever?

Dengue fever is an arbovirus infection caused by the dengue virus (DENV serotypes 1-4) of the Flaviviridae family, transmitted via infected Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes. More than 100 million symptomatic cases and hundreds of thousands of severe cases occur each year.

The disease can present with varying severity as classic dengue fever, dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF), and dengue shock syndrome (DSS). A second infection with a different serotype particularly increases the risk of severe disease.

There is no specific antiviral treatment; hydration and close monitoring are the most important approaches. Dengue vaccines (Dengvaxia, Qdenga) are available in some regions, but indications are limited.

Symptoms

Sudden onset of high fever (40°C)
Severe headache and retro-orbital pain
Muscle and joint pains ('break-bone fever')
Maculopapular rash
Nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite
Bleeding, thrombocytopenia, and plasma leakage in DHF
Rapid pulse, low blood pressure, and cold extremities in DSS

Risk Factors

Travel to tropical and subtropical regions
Urban and suburban areas
Rainy and humid season
Presence of Aedes mosquitoes
Prior history of dengue infection (risk of severe course)
Standing water sources (tires, flowerpots)
Immunosuppression

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Febrile illness after returning from a tropical region
  • Thrombocytopenia and signs of bleeding
  • Abdominal pain, frequent vomiting, restlessness
  • Low blood pressure and weakness
  • Rapidly worsening general condition

Treatment Methods

01
Close monitoring and adequate hydration
02
Fever control with acetaminophen (NSAIDs/aspirin avoided)
03
Fluid therapy (crystalloid in severe cases)
04
Blood and platelet transfusion (when needed)
05
Aedes mosquito control and personal protection
06
Dengue vaccine (in selected populations)

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Enfeksiyon Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Enfeksiyon Hastalıkları Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.