With over half of the annual dengue fever season still to run, infections are widespread across the island-state and have now exceeded 8,800 this year with nine associated deaths. Fifty high risk clusters are concerning the NEA which stated that ‘60% of mosquito breeding are found in homes’ and acknowledged that the entire region is experiencing a rise in dengue reporting. (More reports from the Philippines, Bangladesh, Vietnam, the Maldives, Nepal and Sri Lanka) Meanwhile, another infection transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, chikungunya has been diagnosed in a resident of New Taipei City in Taiwan – the first such report by the country’s CDC, which summarises chikungunya activity in the region and across the globe on its website. Read more
Advice for travellers
Dengue fever is common in most tropical or sub-tropical regions of the world. The virus is spread by daytime-feeding Aedes mosquitoes and to avoid it and other insect-borne diseases, travellers should apply an insect repellent containing an effective active ingredient, such as DEET, Picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus (PMD), to exposed skin when outdoors during the day. In addition, cover up with long-sleeved tops, long pants, and shoes and socks around dawn and dusk, as well as other times when the mosquitoes are 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.