Six states have reported the majority of January’s 441 confirmed dengue fever cases (Veracruz, Quintana Roo, Tabasco, Guerrero, Jalisco and Yucatán) and a further 6,000 suspected cases were recorded. Both these figures represent a year-on-year increase from Jan 2019. Read more. Elsewhere in the Americas, a big clean-up of likely mosquito breeding grounds has been underway in dengue-affected areas of Paraguay – all locations of Central Department and the capital have been affected, but some areas more so (Barrio Obrero, San Vicente, Saxony, Zeballos Cué, Holy Trinity and Republican).
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.