The quadrupling of dengue fever cases in the country’s NE during January, coming well before the usual high (wet) season, has public health authorities concerned. More than 9,000 cases and seven deaths were recorded up to Mar 5. Read more. Highest rates of dengue fever and severe dengue this year have been in the south, followed by the central and NE regions. While Malaysia has also recorded a year-on-year rise in the incidence of dengue fever and related deaths with almost 33,000 cases and 57 deaths in the year to Mar 19. Selangor has been hardest hit with almost 200 new cases daily.
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, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus, 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.