Dengue Fever: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Medically reviewed by Sumiran Racherla, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 23, 2026.
What kind of doctor treats Dengue Fever?
An infectious disease doctor, who treats illnesses caused by germs, often cares for people with dengue. You can start by seeing a health care provider and mentioning any recent travel. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What is dengue fever?
Dengue is a viral infection. It can be caused by four related viruses. You can get it if an infected mosquito bites you.
It is common in warm, wet areas of the world. Although rare, it can be found in some parts of the United States. Outbreaks are more common during rainy seasons.
Dengue does not spread directly from person to person. The infection can be passed to the baby during pregnancy. In rare cases, it can spread through a blood transfusion, organ transplant, or needle stick injury.
Symptoms
About one in four people infected with dengue will get sick. The illness can be mild or severe. The most common symptom is fever with any of the following:
- Eye pain, typically behind the eyes.
- Muscle, joint, or bone pain.
- Headache.
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Rash.
The symptoms usually last two to seven days. Most people get better after about a week. Mild symptoms can be confused with other illnesses that cause fever.
About 1 in 20 people who get sick with dengue will develop severe dengue. It can cause shock, internal bleeding, and even death.
Causes and who gets it
Dengue viruses spread mainly through the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito. Mosquitoes bite during the day and night.
People are more likely to develop severe dengue if they have had dengue before, are pregnant, or are infants.
Travelers returning from an area with dengue should watch for symptoms for 2 weeks after the trip.
How doctors diagnose it
A blood test is the only way to confirm the diagnosis. Your provider may order blood tests to look for dengue or similar viruses.
A lab test is not required to manage the illness. Your provider might give care based on your signs and symptoms.
Treatment
There is no specific medicine to treat dengue. Most people will get better after about a week. If you think you might have dengue:
- Rest as much as possible.
- Take acetaminophen to control fever and relieve pain.
- Do not take aspirin or ibuprofen.
- Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration.
Severe dengue often requires care at a hospital.
When to see a doctor
See a health care provider if you have symptoms of dengue and live in or have recently traveled to an area with dengue.
Severe dengue is a medical emergency. Call 911 or go to the emergency room right away if you or a family member has any of these warning signs:
- 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 extremely tired or restless.
Watch for these signs after your fever has gone away. Also call 911 or go to the emergency room for trouble breathing, fainting, or bleeding that will not stop.
How a direct primary care or concierge doctor fits in
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance, while a concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance. Such a doctor can check your symptoms, order blood tests, and tell you when to go to the hospital.
Common questions
Does dengue spread from person to person?
No, dengue does not spread directly from person to person. It spreads through the bite of an infected mosquito.
How long does dengue last?
Dengue symptoms usually last two to seven days. Most people get better after about a week.
Is there a medicine or vaccine for dengue?
No, there is no specific medicine to treat dengue. No dengue vaccine is currently available in the United States.
How can I prevent dengue?
The best way to prevent dengue is to avoid mosquito bites. Use insect repellent. Wear loose-fitting, long-sleeved shirts and pants. Control mosquitoes in and around your home.
Sources
- MedlinePlus - Dengue
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - Symptoms of Dengue and Testing
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - Preventing Dengue
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
