The Ministry of Health has advised that 18 dengue fever cases have been confirmed since mid-April and they were reported from Erakor Area, Freshwota, Pango, Nambatu Area, Namburu, Bladinear, Beverly Hills, Tebakor and Havannah Area, which are all located in Port Vila and its peri-urban areas. Read more. In other dengue news, almost three-quarters of all dengue fever cases in Sri Lanka this year have been in Western Province, with an overall rise in infections compared to the same period in 2020. The ECDC has published an update on dengue fever numbers since July 2: More than 141,600 new cases across the globe, the majority from Brazil, Philippines, Vietnam, Peru and Mexico, while high rates of chikungunya were reported by Brazil, India, Belize, Malaysia and Peru.
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.