Dengue fever cases rose sharply across the country last year, climbing to levels last seen in 2017. Seventeen regions were affected throughout 2020 and more than 55,600 cases were recorded, as routine mosquito control measures foundered during the pandemic. A PAHO researcher said that the virus was no longer just circulating in tropical areas such as near the Amazon, but was now also found ‘in desert-type areas’. The health ministry warned late last year that Peru had the third highest mortality from dengue in the Americas (after the Dominican Republic and Venezuela). 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.