Regional dengue updates

From the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) dengue fever summary for the end of 2018: Brazil recorded over 240,000 suspected cases of dengue fever with all four serotypes circulating, while Mexico, Nicaragua, Colombia and Paraguay completed the top 5 dengue-reporting countries in the region. See all details in ProMED report Archive Number: 20190103.6240824

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 fever 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.