Dengue Fever: symptoms, causes & treatment in Nigeria
Also known as breakbone fever.
This page is general health information, not a diagnosis. Always consult a licensed clinician about your own health.
Overview
Dengue is a viral infection spread by day-biting Aedes mosquitoes and is increasingly recognised in Nigeria, where it is often mistaken for malaria. Most cases feel like a bad flu with intense body pain, but a small number progress to dangerous bleeding or shock. Testing helps separate it from malaria and typhoid.
Symptoms
High fever
Severe headache and pain behind the eyes
Intense muscle, bone and joint pain
Nausea or vomiting
Skin rash
Tiredness lasting weeks
Easy bruising or minor bleeding
Causes & risk factors
Bite from an infected Aedes mosquito
Mosquito breeding in stored water and containers around the home
Previous dengue infection (raises risk of severe disease)
Treatment & self-care
There is no specific antiviral; care involves rest, plenty of fluids and paracetamol-type fever relief — aspirin and ibuprofen-type painkillers are avoided because they can worsen bleeding. Doctors monitor warning signs, and severe cases need hospital fluids. Empty and cover water containers to stop mosquito breeding.
See a doctor urgently if
Severe abdominal pain or persistent vomiting
Bleeding gums, nosebleeds or blood in vomit or stool
Cold, clammy skin or restlessness as fever settles
Dizziness or fainting
Frequently asked questions
What are the first signs of Dengue Fever?
Early signs often include high fever, severe headache and pain behind the eyes, intense muscle, bone and joint pain. Symptoms vary from person to person, so a proper assessment by a doctor is the only way to be sure.
Can Dengue Fever be treated?
There is no specific antiviral; care involves rest, plenty of fluids and paracetamol-type fever relief — aspirin and ibuprofen-type painkillers are avoided because they can worsen bleeding. Doctors monitor warning signs, and severe cases need hospital fluids. Empty and cover water containers to stop mosquito breeding.
When should I see a doctor about Dengue Fever?
See a doctor promptly if you notice: severe abdominal pain or persistent vomiting; bleeding gums, nosebleeds or blood in vomit or stool; cold, clammy skin or restlessness as fever settles; dizziness or fainting.