Dengue in islands of the French Antilles update

The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) reports continued transmission of dengue in the French Antilles, with the islands of Guadeloupe, Saint Martin, Saint Barthelemy and Martinque affected so far. In the period 21 February to 8 March 2020, there were 1,519 cases of dengue reported, with an additional 1,234 suspected cases recorded between 8-29 March 2020. There have been no reports of associated deaths.

Dengue is a commonly identified cause of febrile illness in returning travellers. All travellers to endemic regions are potentially at risk of dengue fever and should be aware of this infection. Prevention relies on avoiding mosquito bites at all times.

Travellers developing a fever during or on return from travel are advised to seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Information and advice on dengue is available from the TRAVAX (for health professionals) and fitfortravel (for the general public) websites.