If someone contracts dengue fever, the flu-like symptoms typically last for about 2 to 7 days. The incubation period for dengue (the time between being bitten by an infected mosquito and the onset of symptoms) is usually around 4 to 10 days, but it can vary.
During the early phase of dengue infection, the person may experience symptoms such as:
High Fever: Sudden high fever, often reaching up to 104°F (40°C).
Severe Headache: Intense headache, especially behind the eyes.
Pain and Joint Aches: Severe joint and muscle pain, which is why dengue is often referred to as "breakbone fever."
Nausea and Vomiting: Feeling nauseous and vomiting.
Rash: A rash may appear on the skin, usually after the fever has subsided.
Mild Bleeding: Some individuals may experience mild bleeding, such as nosebleeds or bleeding gums.
The symptoms usually peak around the third to fifth day of illness and then gradually subside. However, in some cases, a second phase of the disease called the critical phase or the plasma leakage phase may occur after a few days of feeling better. During this phase, there may be a transient improvement in symptoms followed by the development of more severe symptoms, such as:
Severe Abdominal Pain: Intense abdominal pain due to plasma leakage.
Persistent Vomiting: Continuous vomiting.
Bleeding Complications: Severe bleeding, organ failure, or other complications, which can be life-threatening.
The critical phase typically occurs around 3 to 7 days after the onset of symptoms and can last for 24 to 48 hours. After the critical phase, the fever subsides, and the person enters the recovery phase, during which the symptoms gradually improve.
It's important to note that dengue fever can range from mild to severe, and in severe cases, it can be life-threatening. If you suspect you have dengue or are experiencing symptoms similar to those described above, seek medical attention immediately. Early detection and proper medical care can significantly improve the outcome of dengue infection.