A comprehensive WHO Disease Outbreak News post on the increasing trend of dengue and chikungunya transmission across the Americas gauged the risk across the region as high. It noted a ‘geographical expansion’ of the affected areas, anticipated surges in the months to come, as well as ‘a high incidence of meningoencephalitis possibly associated to chikungunya reported by Paraguay’. For dengue fever rates in the year to March 4, the highest cumulative incidence was reported by Bolivia, Nicaragua and Belize, and for chikungunya, Paraguay, Brazil and Belize. Read more
Advice for travellers
Chikungunya virus is spread by the same daytime-feeding mosquitoes that transmit dengue fever. There is currently no approved vaccine and preventing infection relies on avoiding mosquito bites. Apply an effective repellent when outdoors to all exposed skin. Read more about chikungunya.
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.