Dengue
Based on CDC and WHO guidance, checked against those sources on Oct 12, 2026. Educational information only — not a diagnosis or a substitute for a licensed healthcare professional.
Common symptoms
- Fever, plus any of:
- Nausea or vomiting
- Rash
- Aches and pains — eye pain (often behind the eyes), muscle, joint or bone pain
- Headache
Symptoms usually begin 5–7 days after the mosquito bite (range about 3–10 days) and last 2–7 days. These symptoms can also be caused by other illnesses.
Seek emergency care for
- Belly pain or tenderness
- Vomiting at least 3 times in 24 hours
- Bleeding from the nose or gums
- Vomiting blood, or blood in the stool
- Feeling very tired, restless or irritable
- Cold or clammy skin, or difficulty breathing
- Severe dengue can develop within a few hours and is a medical emergency — don't wait.
When to contact a healthcare professional
- As soon as you have a fever during or within 2 weeks after being in an area with dengue.
- Right away if you are pregnant and may have dengue — CDC advises hospital care for pregnant people with dengue.
- If an infant develops a fever after being in an area with dengue.