Dengue :: Dengue, Tropical and Subtropical Regions

The range of dengue has rapidly expanded in recent years to include most tropical countries throughout Asia (including the Indian Subcontinent), the South Pacific, the Caribbean, South and Central America, and Africa.

The risk to travelers is related to mosquito exposure, which can vary with the season.

Since mid-January 2007 there has been an ongoing dengue outbreak in Paraguay, South America. The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has indicated 2007 could be a very active year for dengue activity in the Latin America region and that preventive measures are strongly urged. In addition, dengue outbreaks have been reported in several Southeast and South Asian countries in recent years. According to the Southeast Asia-Region Office of the World Health Organization (WHO), 8 of 11 countries in the South East Asia Region ( Bangladesh, India, Indonesia, Maldives, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Timor-Leste) report dengue disease incidence every year.

Prevention Measures for Travelers

No vaccine is available for dengue; however, travelers can reduce their risk by taking steps to protect themselves from mosquito bites:

Use insect repellent containing DEET or Picaridin. DEET concentrations of 30% to 50% are effective for several hours. Picaridin, available in 7% and 15% concentrations, needs to be applied more frequently. (Note: apply any needed sunscreen before applying insect repellent)
Wear lightweight long pants and long-sleeved shirts when outdoors
Stay in hotels or resorts that are air conditioned. If air conditioning is not available, staying in well-screened rooms can reduce contact with mosquitoes
Empty or cover containers that can collect water (e.g., uncovered barrels, flower vases, or cisterns), because mosquitoes that transmit dengue breed in standing water

Aedes mosquitoes, the principal mosquito vector, usually are active at dusk and dawn, but may feed at any time during the day, especially indoors, in shady areas, or when the weather is cloudy. Additionally, the risk for contracting dengue is greater in urban areas and lower in rural areas or areas at high altitude (above 4,500 feet [1500 meters]).


Leave a Comment

Spirit India