Dengue cases continue to run at a 3-year high with 300-400 recorded each week this year, totalling more than 2,650 to Feb 18. Dengue serotype 3 hasn’t circulated in Singapore for several decades but last month, it was the cause of more cases than DENV-2 (more common since 2016), however, according to the NEA, ‘it is still too early to deem that a switch in the predominant dengue virus serotype has occurred’. Of the current active clusters, 21 are high risk areas with 10 or more cases. Read more
Advice for travellers
Avoid mosquito bites to protect against dengue fever. 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 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.