Dengue fever is a viral disease transmitted by mosquitoes in tropical countries and are not found in Aotearoa New Zealand. There is no vaccine available. Prevention involves avoiding mosquito bites while abroad using the correct safety measures. Repeat infections increase the risk of severe dengue.
Symptoms of dengue fever usually appear 3 to 14 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito and can last from 2 to 7 days and can include a sudden onset of fever, headaches, myalgia and arthralgia, weakness and more. A small number of people may get severe dengue within 2 to 5 days of their symptoms starting, this is more likely to occur the second time a person has been infected with dengue fever and should be referred to the hospital.
Managing symptoms
Laboratory testing involves full blood count (leucopenia, thrombocytopenia, elevated ALT, increased HCT), and testing for the dengue virus (PCR) or antigen and/or serology tests.
Treatment is supportive, but NSAIDS (ibuprofen/aspirin) should be avoided. Seek infectious diseases advice if concerned, including if your patient has previously had dengue or there are any signs of bleeding.
If travelling to Samoa, always check the latest Te Whatu Ora public health advice and information about how to stay healthy when travelling. For additional information please refer to this TeWhatu Ora fact sheet on dengue fever.
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