Dengue hemorrhagic fever is a severe mosquito-borne viral illness characterized by increased vascular permeability, hypovolemia, and abnormal blood clotting. It is caused by any of four dengue virus types and transmitted by the Aedes aegypti mosquito. Common symptoms include high fever, abdominal pain, vomiting and bleeding. Treatment focuses on fluid replacement and management of shock. Prevention emphasizes eliminating mosquito breeding sites and using protective measures against bites.