Dengue fever cases are continuing to mount well ahead of the annual peak season which starts next month – more than 6,400 infections have been logged this year and the NEA has currently identified 45 high-risk clusters of 10 or more cases. In order to prevent a major outbreak, the agency has warned of ‘Strong Enforcement Action’ for those people who fail to remove mosquito breeding sites around their premises. Read more. In other regional news on dengue, health authorities in Zamboanga City in the Philippines (Mindanao) have responded to the dengue outbreak declared last month by intensifying vector control operations and raising public awareness on disease prevention. To Apr 23, the city had registered more than 1,400 dengue cases and 14 related deaths. Read more
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.