Dengue Fever is spread through the bite of certain species of mosquitoes, but only if they are infected with the Dengue Fever virus. Capable species of mosquitoes pick up the Dengue Fever infection by biting a human who is ill with Dengue Fever. Two capable mosquito vectors are present in the Americas, including the United States, Aedes aegypti, and Aedes albopictus. Nearly all cases of Dengue Fever which are diagnosed in the United States are a direct result of recent travel to tropical areas outside the United States. The rash typically begins on the arms or legs three to four days after the beginning of the fever.
Symptoms can range widely in severity.
Symptoms usually resolve within 1 to 2 weeks. Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever is the most serious form of this illness. Hospitalization is usually required. Symptoms usually occur within 5 to 6 days after the bite of an infected mosquito, but they may be delayed for up to 2 weeks. Dengue Fever is diagnosed by clinical symptoms and by specific blood tests.