Dengue cases in Rio de Janeiro have risen by almost half this year compared with the same period in 2018 – with many of the more than 1,000 infections from the western districts of Santa Cruz and Campo Grande. Read more. And in the state of São Paulo, the city of Araraquara is recording up to 50 new dengue cases on a daily basis and 18 cities of NW regions have received warnings that epidemics may be imminent. While in the Caribbean, rates of both dengue fever and malaria have risen substantially in the Dominican Republic. Read a summary of dengue in the Americas here.
Advice for travellers
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. 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.