How Long Does Fever Last in Dengue, Typhoid, and Malaria?
Fever is one of the most common reasons patients visit my clinic. Many people ask me:
“Doctor, how many days will this fever continue? Is it dengue, typhoid, or malaria?”
The duration and pattern of fever give very important clues. Let me explain this clearly in simple language.
Fever in Dengue fever:
How Long Does It Last?
- Usually 3 to 7 days
- Sudden high fever (102–104°F)
- Severe body pain and headache
- Extreme weakness
In dengue, fever may reduce after 4–5 days. But many people misunderstand this stage.
Even if fever reduces, the critical phase may start between Day 4–6, when platelet count can drop.
When to Worry in Dengue?
- Severe abdominal pain
- Continuous vomiting
- Bleeding from gums or nose
- Extreme weakness
- Reduced urine output
At this stage, proper monitoring and medical supervision are very important.
Fever in Typhoid fever:
How Long Does It Last?
- Without treatment: 2–3 weeks
- With proper antibiotics: Fever reduces in 4–7 days
Fever Pattern:
- Gradually increasing fever
- Persistent temperature (does not come down easily)
- Stomach discomfort
- Loss of appetite
- Weakness
Typhoid does not settle on its own quickly. It needs correct antibiotics for full recovery.
If ignored, it can lead to serious intestinal complications.
Fever in Malaria:
How Long Does It Last?
- Improves in 2–3 days after starting treatment
- Without treatment, can become severe
Fever Pattern:
Malaria fever often follows a cycle:
- Chills and shivering
- High fever
- Sweating
- Fever reduces
- After 1–2 days, fever repeats
This pattern is a strong clue for malaria.
Severe malaria can affect the brain, liver, and kidneys if treatment is delayed.
Simple Comparison:
When Should You Visit a Specialist?
You should consult an Infectious Disease Specialist when:
- Fever is not improving with basic treatment
- Platelet count is falling
- Fever keeps returning
- You are unsure about the cause
- There is a risk of tropical infections
As an Infectious Disease Specialist in Coimbatore, we regularly manage complex and prolonged fevers. Proper blood tests, clinical examination, and close monitoring help us identify whether it is dengue, typhoid, malaria, or another infection.
Early evaluation avoids unnecessary antibiotics, prevents complications, and ensures faster recovery.
Final Advice:
Do not self-diagnose. Do not start antibiotics without proper testing. And do not wait for fever to become severe. Most fevers are treatable but only when diagnosed correctly and on time.
If you or your family member has persistent fever, timely medical consultation can make all the difference.
Stay alert. Stay informed. Stay healthy.