HOLIDAYMAKERS have been warned that cases of a potentially fatal bug are rising.
Some travel destinations are a hotbed for dangerous viruses, and Brits are warned to take precautions.
Many countries are recording an increase in dengue, according to security and health company International SOS.
It has seen a 92 per cent increase in dengue-related cases this year compared to last year.
Over the last 20 years, cases have risen more than eight-fold.
Dengue is now consistently present in over 100 countries.
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Some of those include in the Caribbean (Dominican Republic, Saint Lucia, Barbados, etc), South East Asia (Philippines, Sri Lanka, Indonesia) and Oceania (Maldives, Fiji).
It is “the leading cause of serious illness and death in some Asian and Latin American countries”, the International SOS.
Asia is reported to represent around 70 per cent of the global burden of the disease.
The NHS says dengue is the second most commonly identified cause of fever in unwell international travellers.
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Dr Irene Lai, Group Medical Director at International SOS, said: “Dengue is transmitted by mosquito bites.
“It is an increasing problem, with more cases, outbreaks becoming larger and more common, and the disease appearing in new areas.
“Dengue, like most illnesses, causes a spectrum of disease.
“It can be very mild, while some people will experience strong headaches, high fever and rash. In the most severe cases, it can progress to bleeding and organ failure which can be fatal.”
Around two per cent of the 100 million people who catch dengue fever every year end up with a serious illness.
Dr Lai said urbanisation and climate change may be causing dengue fever to expand to more countries, and spread for longer seasons.
He said: “Everyone needs to be aware of, and practising, measures to prevent dengue infections and transmission, including organisations that are operating in dengue-affected areas, and those sending travellers to them.”
How to prevent dengue fever
There is no vaccine available against dengue fever for travellers.
To prevent dengue fever, you need to reduce the risk of mosquito bites and breeding.
Mosquitoes that transmit dengue tend to bite during the daytime
Tips include:
- Cover up bare skin – wear clothing that covers as much skin as practical. Don’t forget feet and ankles.
- Use an effective insect repellent.
- Avoid areas where mosquitoes breed – anywhere with stagnant water such as drains and ponds.
- Keep mosquitoes out of your accommodation – close windows and doors. If you need to have windows and doors open ensure that you have mosquito screens closed. Use "knock-down" insect spray to kill mosquitoes in your room.
- Keep your accommodation free of mosquito breeding areas – containers and dishes that hold even a small amount of water can breed mosquitoes. Dishes under potted plants are notorious culprits.
Most people who get dengue fever don’t have symptoms, and if they do, they are mild.
Between four and ten days after the mosquito bites, symptoms include a sudden onset of fever, headache, muscle and joint pains.
A flat, red rash may also develop.
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The illness usually gets better within a few days to a week without treatment, but painkillers can be taken to relieve symptoms.
Find out the health risks at your summer holiday destination with this online tool.
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