During the prevailing monsoon season, 20 cities and three rural regions have recorded high dengue fever case numbers, including the regions of Sagaing, Mandalay, and Mon state. Countrywide, dengue infections this year have climbed to 2,862 cases and 20 deaths to June 27 – the highest death count has been in Yangon region. Read more. While in Singapore, the NEA confirmed that last week’s total of 1,736 cases was ‘the highest number of weekly dengue cases ever recorded’, and made it six weeks in a row with totals exceeding 1,000. The year’s dengue-related death toll has risen to 19 after a further three deaths were recorded.
Advice for travellers
Avoid mosquito bites to protect against dengue fever. To avoid biting insects, apply repellent containing an active ingredient, such as DEET, Picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus (PMD) to all exposed skin when outdoors. Dengue is spread by two types of aedes mosquitoes. Both breed close to dwellings, are found in shady areas and bite mainly during the daylight hours, making them difficult to avoid outdoors. Travellers should also cover up with long-sleeved tops, long pants, and shoes and socks when mosquitoes are most active.
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.