More than 5,000 new dengue fever cases have been registered since early August, with highest incidence in the northern province of Oudomxay (rounding out the top five provinces were Khammouane, Vientiane Capital, Luang Prabang and Savannakhet). The peak rainy season runs until mid-October. Elsewhere in the region, in Vietnam more than 1,100 dengue cases were recorded in Hanoi over the week to Aug 31, while Tainan has had over 87 percent of Taiwan’s dengue cases this year as another 1,300 cases were logged last week across the country, and the national dengue case total in Bangladesh has risen to nearly 136,000 with 657 deaths. More regional information on dengue fever can be found in the Update on the Dengue situation in the WHO Western Pacific Region of August 17. Read more
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.