Breakbone fever, also referred to as dengue fever, is a rapidly onset viral illness transmitted by mosquitoes. It typically presents with symptoms such as headache, fever, extreme fatigue, severe joint and muscle pain, swollen glands, and a rash. The combination of fever, rash, and headache, along with other pains, is particularly indicative of this illness. Commonly recognized as dengue, the disease is widespread across tropical and subtropical regions around the globe. It is also known by other names, such as dandy fever. The intense joint and muscle pain often cause sufferers to twist and contort, which is why it is sometimes called "breakbone fever." In the West Indies, slaves who contracted dengue were described as having "dandy fever" because of their postures and movements.
