Dengue fever is a mosquito borne infection. It is spread by a species of mosquito called Aedes aegypti, sometimes known as the ‘Asian tiger mosquito’ due to its striped appearance. It normally bites during the day. 

Most infections occur in SE Asia, South and Central America, Mexico, Africa, Indian sub-continent, Hawaii and the Pacific, however Dengue is now emerging outside of the tropics and infections have now been reported in France and Spain as well as other countries across Europe.

Urban areas tend to be higher risk than rural areas as the Dengue carrying mosquito likes to breed in stagnant water such as drainpipes, old tyres, cans and flowerpots that collect rain.

If infected with Dengue Fever, symptoms include a high fever, headache, possibly nausea and vomiting. Three to five days later a rash may appear on your trunk. It can make you feel very unwell and there is no specific treatment. If Dengue is caught for a second time, the symptoms can be more serious and potentially fatal in some. The only way to diagnose Dengue Fever is to have a blood test, therefore if you suffer flu like symptoms while abroad or after returning home, seek medical advice urgently.