Doctors in Telangana’s capital of Hyderabad are warning against the presence of dengue fever-carrying mosquitoes even into what used to be considered the low season. Read more
NATIONAL Institute of Virology testing of the Zika virus strains implicated in the outbreak that began in September last year found the Uganda strain responsible for the cases in Madhya Pradesh, a Brazilian-like strain in Rajasthan and Malaysian Zika strain was close to those found in Gujarat. Read more
RECENT rains in New Delhi offered some improvement in the poor air quality but it was short-lived. Today the Real-time Air Quality Index (AQI) indicates ‘very unhealthy’ conditions for many parts of the city.
Advice for travellers
Don’t get bitten and you won’t get dengue. 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. Read more about dengue fever.
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.