At this current time, people all around the world are concerned with protecting themselves against the Coronavirus, but those living in tropical climates also have to be vigilant against Dengue fever. Dengue is a common threat that has been plaguing the Philippines before the emergence of COVID-19 and its dangers should not be swept aside during this time. 

There are several similarities between the symptoms of COVID-19 and dengue, but only in its early stages. Protect yourself by learning the differences between COVID-19 and dengue with our guide.

Transmission of Dengue vs. COVID-19

Dengue is a vector-borne disease, meaning it only spreads via living organisms, which in this case is the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito. COVID-19, on the other hand, is a respiratory disease that is transmitted from one person to another through respiratory droplets from an infected person when they sneeze, cough, or talk. 

Signs & Symptoms of Dengue and COVID-19

Both Dengue and COVID-19 exhibit fever-like symptoms, but at different temperatures. Dengue fever is often more severe with temperatures rising up to 40ºC and above. Fever from COVID-19 has a temperature range of 37.5ºC to 39ºC. Both Dengue and COVID-19 patients also experience fatigue, but similarly, fatigue from Dengue is often more severe and is associated with joint pains.

Other common symptoms of Dengue that aren’t typically present in COVID-19 include headache accompanied by pain around or behind the eyeballs, rashes on the lower limbs and chest, abdominal pain and nausea. 

As COVID-19 is a respiratory illness, it exhibits more flu and cold-like symptoms. This usually includes breathing difficulties, dry cough, nasal congestion, conjunctivitis, as well as a loss of smell and taste.

Risk Factors for Severe Dengue and COVID-19

Dengue and COVID-19 are illnesses that are potentially fatal, and there are several risk factors that may cause a person to develop a more severe illness than others. Individuals in these groups have to take more precaution to protect themselves.

Who is at risk of severe dengue?

• Infants are at higher risk of developing complications from dengue.

• In dengue-endemic countries like the Philippines, there’s a higher likelihood of developing a second infection that may lead to more severe symptoms than the first time.

• Patients with chronic medical conditions such as asthma, diabetes, and heart disease.

Who is at risk of severe COVID-19?

• Those who are middle-aged and older are at greater risk of developing more serious symptoms of the disease.

• People with pre-existing lung problems such as lung cancer, cystic fibrosis, pulmonary fibrosis and moderate to severe asthma.

• Underlying conditions such as obesity, hypertension, prior stroke, liver disease and chronic disease may also cause severe COVID-19 illness.

Treatment for Dengue and COVID-19

If you’re experiencing any of the above symptoms, it’s important to get tested for Dengue or COVID-19 as soon as possible to avoid severe complications. Get covered for your Dengue or COVID-19 tests and confinement for both mild and severe cases with Singlife. We’ve partnered with GCash to bring you Cash for Dengue Costs with free COVID-19 cover. Learn more about it available products today.