No sign of a let-up in notifications of new chikungunya and dengue fever cases this year, with year-to-date totals at 421 and 1,303 cases respectively. A local news source states that (of dengue), ‘909 of the cases were reported from the outer lying atolls, with most cases reported from Haa Alifu, Raa, Alifu Dhaalu, Laamu and Gaafu Dhaalu atolls’ and national totals are at a 3-year high. Read more
Advice for travellers
Avoid mosquito bites and you won’t get 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.