Dengue Fever: Your Complete Guide for Travellers
Expert Care from the International Travel Vaccination Centre, for Sydney and Surrounds
What is Dengue Fever?
Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne disease primarily transmitted by the Aedes aegypti mosquito. Also known as breakbone fever due to its intense joint and muscle pain, it commonly affects travellers to tropical and subtropical regions worldwide including the Caribbean, Central and South America, South East Asia and the Pacific Islands. For a full breakdown of areas with a high Dengue fever risk visit the Smart Traveller website here.
What Causes Dengue Fever?
Dengue fever is caused by the dengue virus, which has four distinct serotypes (DENV-1 to DENV-4). Infection with one serotype provides immunity to that strain but increases the risk of severe disease if reinfected with a different serotype. The dengue virus is spread primarily through bites from infected Aedes mosquitoes.
How Long Does Dengue Fever Last?
The duration of dengue fever typically ranges from 2 to 7 days, during which symptoms can vary in intensity. For many patients, the fever phase is marked by high temperatures, severe headaches, muscle and joint pain, and fatigue. While these acute symptoms usually subside within a week, the road to full recovery can take longer for some individuals.
After the fever resolves, lingering symptoms such as extreme fatigue, weakness, and joint pain may persist for several weeks, making it challenging to return to normal daily activities. This post-dengue recovery period varies from person to person, depending on the severity of their illness and overall health status.
In severe cases, dengue can develop into more serious forms, such as dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) or dengue shock syndrome (DSS), which can significantly extend the duration of the illness and require specialised medical care. Hospitalisation may be necessary to closely monitor and manage complications, such as internal bleeding or dangerously low blood pressure. Recovery from severe dengue often takes longer and may involve comprehensive medical support and follow-up care.
While dengue fever’s symptoms can be taxing, with proper medical attention, rest, hydration, and supportive care, most people make a full recovery.
Signs and Symptoms of Dengue Fever
Dengue fever is known for its rapid onset and wide-ranging symptoms that typically manifest 4-10 days after a bite from an infected Aedes mosquito. While many cases start with flu-like signs, the disease can quickly escalate, causing significant discomfort and requiring close attention.
Common Dengue Fever Symptoms:
- High Fever: Dengue often presents with a sudden and intense fever, reaching temperatures as high as 40°C (104°F), which can make patients feel weak and exhausted.
- Severe Headache: A pounding headache is a hallmark symptom and often described as debilitating.
- Pain Behind the Eyes: Patients frequently experience intense pain or pressure behind the eyes, making eye movement uncomfortable.
- Severe Joint and Muscle Pain (Breakbone Fever): This classic symptom gives dengue its nickname, breakbone fever, due to the extreme pain felt in the muscles, joints, and bones.
- Nausea and Vomiting: Digestive symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite, are common and can contribute to dehydration if not managed properly.
- Dengue Skin Rash: A red, patchy rash may appear 2-5 days after the fever starts and can spread across the body, adding to patient discomfort.
- Mild Bleeding: Symptoms may include nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or easy bruising, as dengue can affect the body’s blood clotting ability.
What to Do if You Suspect Dengue Fever
If you or someone you know starts to show these symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly. Early intervention can help manage symptoms, reduce complications, and ensure proper care. Your healthcare provider will likely recommend hydration, rest, and careful monitoring, as severe forms of dengue can lead to complications such as dengue hemorrhagic fever or dengue shock syndrome, which require immediate medical attention.
Preventing mosquito bites through insect repellents, protective clothing, and mosquito-proof accommodations is key, especially if you are travelling to or living in areas where dengue fever is common. You can purchase a Travel Pack and Insect Repellants from each of our clinics. Your health and safety matter, and taking proactive steps can make all the difference.
Dengue Fever Vaccine and Prevention
The QDenga vaccine is now the primary option for dengue fever prevention at the International Travel Vaccination Centre. Developed in Germany, this live vaccine is administered in two doses, three months apart, and provides protection against dengue fever for up to four years.
Please note that QDenga is not recommended for individuals who are immunocompromised, pregnant, over 60 years of age, or children under 4 years old. Additionally, this vaccine requires special pre-approval from the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). Our doctors handle this process to ensure you receive the necessary clearance to proceed with vaccination.
Who Should Take the Dengue Fever Vaccine?
The QDenga vaccine is recommended for individuals who are travelling to or living in areas with a high prevalence of dengue. It is especially beneficial for those spending extended periods in endemic regions such as Southeast Asia, the Pacific Islands, Latin America, and some subtropical areas.
As a live vaccine, QDenga is not suitable for everyone. Your eligibility will be carefully assessed based on your medical history and risk factors. Our travel health specialists will provide a thorough consultation to determine if QDenga is appropriate for you and guide you through the vaccination process.
To minimise your risk of dengue exposure, ITVC also offers tailored advice on mosquito prevention and the latest updates in dengue prevention strategies for travellers.
Side Effects of the Dengue Fever Vaccine
Like any vaccine, Dengvaxia may cause some side effects, though most are mild and resolve on their own. Common side effects include pain, swelling, or redness at the injection site, as well as fever, headache, muscle pain, and general fatigue.
These symptoms typically subside within a few days. In rare cases, individuals may experience more severe allergic reactions, such as difficulty breathing, hives, or swelling of the face and throat. It is crucial to inform healthcare providers of any allergies or past reactions to vaccines before administration.
Additionally, the vaccine is not recommended for individuals without prior dengue exposure due to the increased risk of severe symptoms upon subsequent dengue infections. Consulting with a travel doctor can help you weigh the benefits and potential risks of the vaccine based on your personal health and travel plans.
Is Dengue Fever Curable?
Dengue fever currently has no specific cure, but effective treatment focuses on supportive care to manage symptoms and aid recovery. If you or someone you know contracts dengue, the first step is to prioritise rest and hydration. Staying well-hydrated helps counteract fluid loss due to fever, vomiting, or sweating, while rest allows the body to conserve energy and recover faster.
Pain relief can also play a key role in managing symptoms. Acetaminophen (paracetamol) is often recommended to reduce fever and alleviate severe headaches or muscle pain associated with dengue. However, it is critical to avoid aspirin, ibuprofen, and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), as these medications can increase the risk of bleeding—a common concern with dengue.
Early detection and prompt medical attention are crucial in managing dengue effectively and preventing complications. While a full recovery is possible with proper treatment, taking steps to avoid mosquito bites remains the best way to prevent dengue in the first place.
Protect Against Dengue Fever at the International Travel Vaccination Centre
The International Travel Vaccination Centre is your trusted travel doctor for dengue fever prevention.
Our experienced travel health doctors offer:
- Customised risk assessments based on your travel destination and duration of travel
- Up-to-date advice on dengue fever vaccinations and prevention methods
- Pre and post travel health consultations tailored to your needs
Essential Dengue Fever Prevention Tips for Travelers
- Use insect repellents with DEET or Picaridin.
- Wear protective clothing such as long sleeves and pants.
- Stay in mosquito-proof accommodations with screens, air conditioning, or nets.
- Consult our travel health experts for personalised dengue fever immunisation and advice.
Book Online for Your Travel Health Needs
Travelling abroad with family? Visiting a dengue fever hotspot for work? Stay safe and healthy on your travels with the right vaccinations. Book an appointment at the International Travel Vaccination Centre for expert advice and tailored protection against dengue fever and other travel-related diseases. Call us today on 1300 557 070.
Your health and safety are our top priority.
