Risk of Dengue in tropical countries
But the risk of dengue is not only limited to tropical countries. The number of reported dengue cases is continually increasing.
The disease spreads to new areas, and explosive outbreaks are occurring. There have been cases reported in Europe and the U.S.
A threat for those who travel
Among travellers returning from low- and middle-income countries,
dengue is the second most diagnosed cause of fever after malaria.
Prevention for travellers
No chemoprophylaxis can prevent dengue.
If you travel to endemic areas you are at risk of contracting dengue.
Vaccination is now available in several countries including: Mexico, The Philippines, Brazil, El Salvador, Costa Rica, Paraguay, Guatemala, Peru, Indonesia, Thailand, Venezuela, Bolivia, Argentina, Cambodia,Malaysia and Singapore. Contact your local health authority to find out more.
Risk increases with long duration of travel and possible disease incidence in the destination,
such as during epidemics or the rainy season.
Travellers going to the tropics are advised to avoid mosquito bites by carrying out the following preventive measures.
Use insect repellents following instructions on the label.
Wear clothing that covers the arms and legs or exposed skin, especially during the early morning and late afternoon.
Select accommodations with air conditioning or well-screened doors and windows if possible. Mosquitoes tend to live indoors and in dark, cool places, such as under beds, behind curtains, in closets, in bathrooms, and on balconies.
Use insecticides to destroy mosquitoes in these areas.
Empty, clean or cover any standing water that mosquitoes can live and breed, such as water storage tanks, buckets, bottles, old tires, flower vases, etc...