Dengue fever
Symptoms, warning signs and care

Dengue is a viral fever spread by the bite of the Aedes mosquito, which breeds in clean, stagnant water. In Lucknow, cases rise after the monsoon, from August to November. Most people recover at home with rest and fluids, but some develop severe dengue and need hospital care. Knowing the warning signs can save a life.

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About dengue

What is dengue?

Dengue is caused by the dengue virus, which has four types. An infected Aedes mosquito, which bites mainly in the daytime, passes it on. Dengue does not spread directly from person to person. A second infection with a different type can be more severe.

  • Fever usually lasts 2 to 7 days
  • The riskiest time is often when the fever comes down, around day 3 to 7
  • Platelet count usually falls and then recovers
  • There is no specific antiviral medicine; careful fluids and monitoring are the treatment
  • Most people recover fully in 1 to 2 weeks

Fluids

Drink enough fluids to stay well hydrated.

Paracetamol only

For fever and pain, in the dose your doctor advises.

Regular tests

Blood count and platelets as advised.

Watch for warning signs

Come to hospital if they appear.

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Symptoms

Symptoms of dengue

Symptoms usually start 4 to 10 days after the mosquito bite.

High fever

Sudden fever, often 102–104°F.

Severe headache

Often with pain behind the eyes.

Body and joint pain

Muscle, joint and back pain.

Rash

Red spots or rash, often after a few days.

Nausea and vomiting

Loss of appetite.

Weakness

Extreme tiredness.

Minor bleeding

Bleeding gums or nose, small red spots on the skin.

In children

Fever, irritability, poor feeding and drowsiness.

Come to hospital straight away if you notice: severe stomach pain, repeated vomiting, bleeding from gums, nose, in vomit or stool, black stools, cold and clammy hands and feet, very little urine, breathlessness, restlessness or unusual drowsiness. Call 0522-666-4444. Call 0522-666-4444.

Diagnosis

Tests for dengue

Your doctor decides which tests are needed and when to repeat them.

NS1 antigen

Useful in the first few days of fever.

Dengue IgM antibody

Usually positive after about day 5.

Complete blood count

Platelet count and haematocrit (PCV), often repeated.

Liver and kidney tests

When symptoms are severe.

Other fever tests

For malaria, typhoid or other infections if needed.

Treatment

How dengue is treated

Treatment supports the body while the virus runs its course.

Mild dengue

Most people can be cared for at home if they are drinking well, passing urine and have no warning signs.

RestOral fluids: water, ORS, coconut water, soups, juicesParacetamol for fever, as advised

Avoid

  • Aspirin, ibuprofen, diclofenac and other painkillers that raise bleeding risk
  • Injections into muscle unless advised
  • Self-medication with steroids

Follow-up

  • Repeat blood counts as advised
  • Daily check with your doctor during days 3 to 7
  • Return at once if warning signs appear
Prevention

Preventing dengue at home

General guidance — always follow the advice your own doctor gives you.

Stop mosquito breeding

Empty and scrub coolers, buckets, flower pots, old tyres and water tanks every week.

Keep water containers covered.

Avoid bites

Wear long sleeves, use repellent and sleep under a net, especially in the daytime.

Use window screens.

Protect the family

A person with dengue should avoid mosquito bites so the virus is not spread to others in the house.

Contact us urgently if

  • Severe stomach pain or repeated vomiting
  • Bleeding from gums, nose, in vomit or black stools
  • Cold, clammy skin, dizziness or fainting
  • Very little urine in 6 to 8 hours
  • Breathlessness, restlessness or unusual drowsiness
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Myths & facts

Myths about dengue

Tap a card to see the fact.

Myth

“Papaya leaf juice cures dengue.”

Tap to flip
Fact

There is no proven cure. Fluids, rest and monitoring are what matter. Ask your doctor before taking any remedy.

Myth

“Platelet transfusion is needed for every patient.”

Tap to flip
Fact

Most patients recover without transfusion. It is given only when the doctor finds a need.

Myth

“Once the fever goes, the danger is over.”

Tap to flip
Fact

The critical phase often starts as the fever falls. Keep watching for warning signs.

Your care team

Physicians and paediatricians

Internal medicine Paediatrics Blood bank
Practical help

What to bring, costs & insurance

A little preparation helps us help you faster.

What to bring to your visit

Tick off as you pack:

  • Any blood reports already done (NS1, CBC, platelets)
  • A list of medicines taken so far
  • A record of fever readings
  • Insurance or Ayushman card

Costs & insurance

Costs depend on the tests and treatment you need and the length of any hospital stay. Ask our team for a written estimate.

  • ✓Written estimate— ask for one before planned procedures or admission.
  • ✓Health insurance & TPA— cashless treatment for admissions under tie-up insurers; outpatient visits depend on your policy.
  • ✓Ayushman Bharat (PM-JAY) accepted for eligible admissions.
  • ✓Corporate & PSU panels— ask whether your employer has a tie-up with Charak Hospital.

*Coverage depends on your policy and the treatment. Our insurance desk can check this for you.

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FAQs

Frequently asked questions

When should I get tested for dengue?

If you have fever with body pain or headache, especially during the dengue season, see a doctor. NS1 testing is most useful in the first few days.

What platelet count is dangerous?

Platelets usually fall in dengue. Your doctor looks at the count together with symptoms, haematocrit and warning signs. Follow medical advice rather than a single number.

Can I take painkillers?

Take only paracetamol in the dose advised. Avoid aspirin, ibuprofen and similar medicines.

Can dengue happen twice?

Yes. There are four types of dengue virus, and a second infection can be more severe.

Is dengue treatment covered by insurance?

Hospital admission for dengue is covered by many health insurance policies. Our insurance desk can check your cover.

Glossary

Words you may hear

NS1A dengue virus protein detected in the blood early in the illness.
PlateletsBlood cells that help clotting; they fall in dengue.
Haematocrit (PCV)The proportion of red cells in blood; a rise can signal fluid leakage.
Severe dengueDengue with shock, severe bleeding or organ damage.

No matching term. Please ask your doctor at your next visit.

Related pages

Related departments and guides

Internal medicine Typhoid fever Paediatrics Laboratory tests Health library

Fever that is not settling?

See a physician at Charak Hospital, Hardoi Road, Dubagga. For warning signs, come to the 24×7 emergency department. Call 0522-666-4444.

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Medical information disclaimer: This page provides general health information for patients and families. It is not a substitute for a consultation, diagnosis or treatment by a qualified doctor. Treatment decisions depend on each patient's individual condition. In an emergency, call 0522-666-4444 or go to the nearest emergency department.

About this page: Prepared by the Charak Hospital web team with the help of AI writing tools, using information from the Department of Internal Medicine, Charak Hospital & Research Centre ·  Last updated: October 2026

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