With the forecast of more rain throughout June and July, dengue infections are expected to accelerate, adding to the more than 7,600 suspected cases recorded to the end of May. Authorities report that just under 30 percent of dengue cases were from Western Province, which includes the capital Colombo. Elsewhere, better news on the dengue outbreak in the Cook Islands as the latest figures showing infections starting to slow, following the seasonal pattern of the past two years. To date, 200 confirmed or suspected cases have been reported and young people under 20yo have been most impacted. Flooding in Guyana’s south (Region Nine or Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) is hampering efforts to carry out mosquito fumigation after a dengue fever outbreak was declared in the area. This is an added burden for the region’s existing public health challenge, endemic malaria. More dengue and chikungunya news from across the globe as reported by the ECDC in an update on data since April 24: Brazil and India have reported the majority of new chikungunya cases, while highest numbers of dengue fever infections were in Brazil, Peru, Vietnam, Philippines and Nicaragua. 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.