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   Dengue fever

This viral disease is transmitted by mosquitoes and occurs mainly in tropical and subtropical areas. So, that also includes Thailand.

Generally there is only a small risk to travelers, except during epidemics, which are usually seasonal (during and just after the rainy season).

The mosquito, which transmits the dengue virus, is most active during the day, unlike the malaria mosquito, and is found mainly in urban areas in and around places where humans live.

Signs and symptoms of dengue fever include a sudden high fever, headache, joint and muscle pains and nausea and vomiting. A rash of small red spots appears three to four days after the fever.

Dengue is commonly mistaken for other infectious diseases, including influenza. You should seek medical attention if you think you may be infected. Infection can be diagnosed by a blood test.

There is no specific treatment for dengue, although a vaccine is being developed. If you suspect you have dengue fever, you should avoid the use of aspirin, as it increase the risk of hemorrhaging.

As with malaria, the best precaution is to avoid mosquito bites.