Dengue fever symptoms typically last about 2 to 7 days. The illness generally progresses through three phases: the febrile phase (fever lasting 2-7 days), the critical phase (lasting 3-4 days around the 4th to 7th day of fever), and the recovery phase (lasting 2-3 days). Most people recover within 7 to 10 days after their initial symptoms start. Severe cases of dengue may require urgent medical attention and can have more serious complications. Mild dengue usually resolves within about a week, while recovery may extend slightly longer depending on individual cases.