Along with a rise in confirmed dengue fever cases, health authorities have announced they have also detected chikungunya infections. Over one-third of those with dengue have required hospitalisation which is possibly due to the introduction of a strain of the virus that hasn’t circulated in the islands in recent years. Read more and an update on the dengue epidemics in the French Antilles.
Advice for travellers
Chikungunya virus is spread by the same daytime-feeding mosquitoes that transmit dengue fever. There is no vaccine and preventing infection relies on avoiding mosquito bites. Applying an effective repellent to all exposed skin and covering up are your best defences. Read more about chikungunya.
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.