Diagnosis requires sophisticated laboratory testing. Since it may mimic malaria, it can be critical to do thick and thin blood smears to rule out malaria in febrile patients who have been in endemic areas. There is no drug treatment that will cure dengue. There is no effective vaccine against dengue. Avoidance of mosquito bites is the only means of prevention.
Dengue is spread by day-biting mosquitos that prefer feeding on humans.
Two species live in the southern states along the Gulf and Atlantic Coasts, commonly around human dwellings. Storms may increase mosquito populations by providing breeding sites in rain-filled tires, plastic containers, flower pots, and even empty beer bottles. For short operations, personal protective measures are vital. In all cases these products should be used strictly according to label instructions. As with malaria, preventing mosquito bites prevents infections.