Symptoms usually subside within a week, though the victim may be left with prolonged fatigue, aches and pains and depression. There is no vaccine against dengue, and no specific treatment other than symptomatic care. A more severe form of the infection, dengue hemorrhagic fever, occasionally occurs and may prove fatal. This, however, is much more likely to happen in children, particularly if they have been exposed to the virus before. It is rare in tourists.
Insect avoidance is the main means of preventing dengue.
Protective clothing and staying indoors are not always practical. Electric buzzers, garlic and playing reruns of I Love Lucy are also not very effective. In adults, a stronger preparation may be used, which will provide for longer protection. As with other tropical diseases, the risk of dengue to the average tourist is quite low. With the proper precautions, it is even lower.