Suspected dengue fever cases increased from the six reported in December to 11 in January and all but four of the 137 confirmed and probable cases registered since late Feb 2019 have been on Raratonga. A Pacific Community post on Feb 10 reported a single dengue fever case (DENV-1) in a traveller arriving in New Zealand from the Cook Islands in the first week of this month. Updates were also given on the dengue outbreaks in the Marshall Islands (now more than 2,500 cases and three dengue-related deaths), Palau and French Polynesia. Read more
Advice for travellers
Dengue is spread by Aedes mosquitoes which breed close to dwellings, are found in shady areas and bite mainly during the daylight hours, making them difficult to avoid. Travellers should cover up with long-sleeved tops, long pants, and shoes and socks when mosquitoes are most active. Apply repellent containing an active ingredient, such as DEET, Picaridin, or PMD when outdoors to all exposed skin. Read more about dengue fever.
Before you travel, call Travelvax Australia’s telephone advisory service on 1300 360 164 (toll-free from landlines) for country-specific advice and information. You can also make an appointment at your nearest Travelvax clinic to obtain vaccinations, medication to prevent or treat illness, and accessories for your journey.