Selangor’s 18,000+ dengue fever cases since late Dec 2019 eclipse all other states, making up over half of the national total of 29,766 cases (and 43 deaths). In the same period, Kuala Lumpur recorded just over 2,100 cases and Sabah had 1,688. While in Indonesia, authorities announced 14,716 confirmed and suspected cases – the highest case count and death toll occurred in the province of Nusa Tenggara. 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.