Dengue
What is dengue?
Dengue fever is a viral infection that is spread to humans through bites from infected mosquitoes. The disease is most common in South America and Southeast Asia, but is also seen in Africa. Dengue may cause severe and sometimes even life-threatening complications.
Dengue fever is rare in the EU/EEA but outbreaks are sometimes seen in southern Europe. People travelling to areas where the disease is common are at greatest risk of infection. Worldwide, dengue virus infects millions of people every year, killing 20- 25 000.
At a glance:
- Dengue fever is one of the most common mosquito-borne illness in the world. Most commonly found in tropical and subtropical parts of the world, it infects tens of millions of people each year, causing between 20 000-25 000 deaths.
- Although it is not common in the EU/EEA, around 2000 cases are recorded every year; almost all of these are travel related.
- Dengue fever can be prevented through vaccination.
What are the symptoms of dengue?
Dengue fever usually causes fever and flu-like symptoms, including:
- Fever
- Aching muscles or joints
- Pain behind the eyes
- Rash
- Nausea
What are the complications of dengue?
While most dengue infections cause no or only mild symptoms, in some cases the infection can cause life-threatening complications. Symptoms of severe dengue usually develop within two days after the initial symptoms go away. Severe dengue symptoms include:
- Stomach pain
- Vomiting
- Blood in vomit or stool
- Nosebleed
- Bleeding gums
- Severe exhaustion
- Restlessness
- Lung complications
- Low blood pressure
- Risk of heart disease
In people who are pregnant, dengue fever can also cause complications, including an increased risk of pre-eclampsia, fetal distress and preterm delivery.
How is dengue spread?
Dengue fever most commonly spreads to humans through bites from infected Aedes mosquitoes.
Who is at risk of dengue?
In most areas of the EU/EEA, it is very unlikely that people will be bitten by an infected mosquito. People who travel to areas where dengue is more common are at higher risk of infection.
In addition, people who have previously had dengue fever are at higher risk of developing severe disease if they become infected again.
How can dengue be prevented?
Vaccination can protect against dengue fever.
Beyond vaccination, avoiding exposure to mosquito bites by wearing clothes that cover the body and using mosquito repellent in areas where they might carry dengue is strongly encouraged.
How is dengue treated?
There is no specific treatment for dengue fever. Treatment for mild cases usually involves getting enough rest, staying hydrated and managing symptoms until the illness has passed. Cases of severe dengue might require intensive care.