A further uptick in dengue fever cases has occurred in the wake of the recent cyclone, with as many as 700 cases now registered, mainly in the Western and Northern divisions. A public health campaign is targeting infections prone to emerge after infrastructure damage and flooding (leptospirosis, typhoid, dengue and diarrhoea) which can share similar early symptoms to COVID-19. Read more
Advice for travellers
Dengue is spread by Aedes mosquitoes which breed close to dwellings, are found in shady areas and bite mainly during the daylight hours, making them difficult to avoid. Travellers should cover up with long-sleeved tops, long pants, and shoes and socks when mosquitoes are most active. Apply repellent containing an active ingredient, such as DEET, Picaridin, or PMD when outdoors to all exposed skin. 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.