According to local media, public hospitals and private clinics are all full with dengue fever patients - the majority of cases are children caught up in the upsurge in infections dating from late July. Within the wider region, suspected dengue fever case numbers continue to rise in Martinique and Guadaloupe, and Jamaica has now recorded more than 2,100 confirmed or suspected dengue infections (highest rates in St Thomas, Portland and St Mary). Lastly, Costa Rica’s nationwide preventive health alert announced in early September in response to the hike in dengue cases continues, with case totals now exceeding 14,400. Incidence has been greatest in the provinces of Limón (Huetar Caribe region), Puntarenas (North Central region), Alajuela (Central Pacific region) and Heredia (Chorotega region), according to an IFRC report. 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.