Topic: Dengue disease transmission

A father recounts how dengue infections hospitalized three of his children

Faizzudin, a father of five from Malaysia, experienced the overwhelming impact of dengue when three of his children became infected with the mosquito-borne disease, within days of each other. All three required hospitalization, one after the other, and each experienced a range of symptoms including high fever, abdominal pain, breathing difficulties and liver inflammation. One of his sons developed an abnormally low heart rate, which required urgent medical intervention.

Balancing work, school, and round-the-clock hospital care placed a heavy emotional and physical toll on the entire family. Thankfully, all three children made a full recovery.

The experience has made the family much more vigilant about dengue prevention. Living in a dengue-endemic country, Faizzudin and his wife now take active steps to reduce mosquito breeding at home, and encourage others to stay alert to the risks.

This video features real individuals sharing their experiences with dengue. The video reflects a patient’s specific experience and is not intended to represent those of a typical patient. Given the nature of dengue, symptoms and experiences will vary. If you or a family member are experiencing any symptoms, consult a healthcare provider promptly.

Urbanization fuelling the rise of certain species of dengue mosquito

Is urbanization helping fuel the dengue fire?

Investigate the alarming correlation between urbanization and the escalating spread of dengue, including how Aedes mosquitoes have adapted to thrive in urban environments and the subsequent impact on dengue cases.

2 mins

Climate change fuelling growth of dengue fever. eg, through creating an ideal humid environment for the dengue mosquito

Is climate change extending dengue’s reach?

Explore the dangerous intersection of climate change and the expanding reach of dengue fever, as rising temperatures, increased rainfall, and higher humidity create optimal conditions for disease-carrying mosquitoes.

2 mins

Dengue fever is a year-round risk but outbreaks more common in the rainy season

Seasons may shift dengue rates: but dengue remains a year-round threat

Uncover the persistent threat of dengue across seasons, exploring the impact of climate on mosquito numbers and infection risks worldwide.

4 mins

Dengue fever can spread through schools. Children can experience dengue symptoms

Dengue can spread in schools putting children at risk

Find out why schools are a high-risk environment from dengue transmission among children and what can be done to reduce this risk.

3 mins

Unveiling the world of mosquitoes: A guide

Explore the mosquito, one of the world's deadliest animals, in particular, the trio of deadliest species: Aedes, Anopheles, and Culex. Understand their feeding habits, life cycle and the female’s role in transmitting dengue. Learn how climate change and urbanization is fueling their spread.

2 mins

Dengue fever history; origins of the dengue mosquito

The origin and history of the dengue virus

Discover the dengue virus's evolution, from ancient exchanges between mosquitoes and primates, historical epidemics, the agony of 'break-bone fever,' and its modern-era resurgence.

2 mins

Dengue fact sheet

Dengue is a disease that can cause mild, flu-like symptoms but can sometimes develop into a more severe illness.

Ken’s fight with dengue began back home after his holiday

In this candid testimonial, Ken recounts his experience of contracting the dengue fever virus following his return from the Maldives. He describes feeling feverish and bedridden, highlighting the severe muscle and bone pain that earned dengue its nickname, ‘break bone fever.’ While acknowledging that dengue affects individuals differently (indeed, severe dengue is not a common occurrence among people infected with dengue), this traveler shares the challenging nature of his own battle with the virus.

Melina’s daughter had battled dengue during the COVID pandemic

This video describes a mother's unusual experience when her daughter becomes ill with dengue during the COVID pandemic. About 1 in 4 people with dengue develop symptoms.^1,2 Melina consults a pediatrician, who confirms the diagnosis of dengue after a blood test. As her daughter battles high fever, body pain, headaches, and extreme itching, Melina emphasizes the importance of dengue prevention, even within the home.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/dengue/healthcare-providers/clinical-presentation.html. Accessed March 2024.
World Health Organization. Available at: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/dengue-and-severe-dengue. Accessed March 2024.