Learn how to differentiate between dengue and influenza symptoms

MS News Portal On February 8, 2024

Fever, headache, malaise and weakness. These are some common symptoms of several diseases, such as dengue and influenza. How do we differentiate between the two diseases? First, it is important to know that although these diseases are also caused by viruses, they are transmitted in different ways.

Dengue fever is caused by the bite of a female Aedes aegypti mosquito. It is a household insect that lives in or around homes or other places that people frequent, such as commercial establishments, schools, or churches, for example. Usually, the first manifestation of dengue fever is high fever, with a sudden onset, which usually lasts from two to seven days, accompanied by headache, body and joint pain, as well as prostration, weakness, pain behind the eyes and spots. Red on the skin.

Influenza is a respiratory infection caused by the influenza virus, and is most commonly transmitted during the winter. Symptoms usually appear suddenly, such as fever, sore throat, cough, body aches, and headache. It usually resolves spontaneously within about seven days, although cough, malaise and fatigue may persist for a few weeks.

Learn about the characteristics of the symptoms of each of these diseases below:

Dengue fever

High temperature;
Body and joint pain.
Pain behind the eyes.
malaise;
headache;
Red spots on the body.
Warning signs of the disease are mainly characterized by:

Severe and continuous abdominal pain.
Persistent vomiting.
Fluid accumulation.
Mucosal bleeding.
Irritability.

flu

Fever;
Runny nose;
sore throat;
cough;
body aches;
headache;
Joint pain;
Diarrhea;
Vomiting.
exhaustion;
Prostration;
Hoarseness;
Red and watery eyes.

Avoid self-medication

The Ministry of Health confirms that if both diseases are suspected, it is important to drink more fluids and avoid self-medication. Moreover, it is possible to perform tests to accurately identify the disease and provide appropriate treatment. The correct diagnosis can only be made by a doctor. Seek help at the nearest health unit.

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