How long does the febrile phase of dengue typically last?

The febrile phase of dengue typically lasts 2 to 7 days. This phase is characterized by high fever and other symptoms such as headache, muscle and joint pain, and sometimes skin rashes. The duration of this phase is important for clinical assessment and management of dengue fever. It typically begins after the incubation period, which is usually about 4 to 10 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito, and lasts on average around a week. Understanding the duration of the febrile phase helps healthcare practitioners monitor the severity of the disease and anticipate the potential progression to more severe forms, such as dengue hemorrhagic fever or dengue shock syndrome, which may occur after the febrile phase concludes.