Dengue or Swine Flu? These Symptoms Can Help You Spot the Difference

With the monsoon season comes a rise in several viral and mosquito-borne illnesses, including dengue and influenza. The confusing part is that both can initially cause high fever, body aches, weakness, and fatigue, making it difficult to tell them apart based on symptoms alone.

Doctors say understanding how these infections spread and recognizing their typical symptoms can help people seek medical attention at the right time. However, testing is often necessary to confirm the diagnosis.

How Do Dengue and Swine Flu Spread?

Dengue is caused by the dengue virus and is transmitted through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes. These mosquitoes can breed in stagnant water around homes, including water collected in coolers, flower pots, containers, and other places.

Swine flu, commonly referring to influenza A(H1N1), is a respiratory infection that spreads mainly through respiratory droplets and close contact with an infected person. Crowded places such as schools, offices, public transport, and other enclosed spaces can facilitate its spread.

Common Symptoms of Dengue

Dengue often develops with a sudden and high fever. Other symptoms may include:

• Severe muscle and joint pain

• Intense headache

• Pain behind the eyes

• Nausea or vomiting

• Skin rash

• Weakness and extreme fatigue

• Low platelet count in some patients

The intense muscle and joint pain associated with dengue is one reason it is sometimes described as "breakbone fever."