Dengue Fever

Dengue Fever is a viral disease transmitted by the Aedes mosquito in tropical and subtropical areas of Asia, Oceania, Africa, Central & South America and the Caribbean. Transmission occurs predominantly in urban and semi-urban areas, but may also occur in rural areas. Epidemic transmission is generally seasonal with highest risk during and immediately after the rainy season.

Incidence

It is estimated that up to 50-100 million cases of Dengue occur each year worldwide and Travelvax has information on current outbreaks around the world. The geographical distribution of the disease has greatly increased in recent years and importation has also resulted in transmission in northern Australia and islands to its north, including those in the Torres Strait. The risk to travellers is generally low (about 1 per 1000 per month) unless there is an epidemic in progress.

Symptoms

The disease is characterised by fever, headache, pain behind the eyes and severe aching of muscles and bones. A rash may appear 3-4 days after the onset of fever. In uncomplicated cases, symptoms resolve in 7-10 days but fatigue may linger for 2-4 weeks.

Dengue is diagnosed by a blood test. It is sometimes difficult to differentiate dengue from other febrile diseases such as malaria and typhoid, so tests may needed to exclude these.

It is important to note that a severe form of Dengue, known as Dengue Haemorrhagic Fever (DHF), may also be a risk wherever the disease occurs. DHF is rare in tourists and is usually associated with second or subsequent infections.

Prevention

There is no vaccine for Dengue fever; the only way to prevent infection is to avoid mosquito bites.

Aedes mosquitoes tend to live in urban areas, are often present indoors, bite during daylight hours and breed in small collections of water around households.

• Wear protective clothing.
• Apply insect repellent containing DEET, Citriodiol or Picaridin to exposed skin.
• Use aerosol insecticides indoors.
• Sleep under a mosquito net if not in well-screened accommodation.
• Use permethrin to impregnate nets and clothing.
• Eliminate any standing water around the dwelling.

Treatment

Treatment is usually supportive and depends on the symptoms.

Hospitalisation may be required.

Management consists of bed rest, fluids and paracetamol. Aspirin should be avoided.

More information on Dengue fever is available during your pre-travel consultation with Travelvax. Call 1300 360 164 for the location of the clinic nearest to you.