Global dengue fever outbreaks

Last updated
Monday, 20/05/2024

 

Dengue fever outbreaks are happening globally. A higher-than-usual number of cases are being reported in:

  • Africa
  • Asia
  • Central and South America
  • the Pacific.

This includes places popular with Australians, such as:

  • Indonesia, including Bali
  • Malaysia
  • Singapore
  • Peru.

See a list of countries where dengue is a risk.

Because there are increasing cases, travellers are more likely to carry dengue fever to other countries. 

What is dengue fever?

Dengue fever is a viral illness. It spreads through bites from an infected mosquito. It does not spread directly from person to person.

Symptoms usually appear 3-14 days after you're bitten. They can last for about 6 days. You can also carry the virus without having symptoms.

Dengue fever can develop into severe dengue. This is rare but is a medical emergency that needs hospital treatment. It can lead to death. It's more common in children and young adults.

Read more about dengue fever.

How to prevent dengue fever

Before you travel

Research the health risks in your destination before you go. Read the Health section in our travel advice for where you're going.

Buy preventive tools such as:

  • insect repellent with DEET, picaridin, or Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus (OLE)
  • a portable mosquito net
  • insecticide with permethrin to spray on clothes and mosquito nets.

There is currently no vaccine to prevent initial dengue infection.

Subsequent infection can be prevented with Dengvaxia®. But people are only recommended to receive Dengvaxia® if certain clinical conditions are met and the benefit outweighs any risks. Speak to your doctor about whether you may be eligible to receive Dengvaxia®.

Remember, no vaccine or preventive drug is 100% effective. Avoiding mosquito bites is crucial to prevent dengue fever.

While you're away

  • Take care to avoid mosquito bites at all times. Be extra cautious during early mornings and late afternoons. This is when mosquitoes are most active.
  • Avoid areas with a lot of mosquitos. For example, near stagnant water.
  • Wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing and closed shoes.
  • Use insect repellent. If you use both sunscreen and repellent, apply the sunscreen first.
  • Sleep under a bed net treated with insecticide.
  • Keep doors and windows closed if they don't have insect screens.
  • Ask for hotel rooms to be sprayed if you notice mosquitos inside.

Read our advice on preventing insect-borne diseases.

Talk to a doctor if you feel unwell while away.

If you feel unwell while travelling back to Australia, tell a crew member or airport staff. If you get symptoms after returning to Australia, see your doctor. Make sure to tell them your recent travel history.

Read more

See also