Global increase in dengue fever

The World Health Organization (WHO) report that the global incidence of dengue has grown dramatically in recent decades, with about half of the world's population potentially at risk.  So far in 2021, there have been 1,472,059 cases reported worldwide, with the majority from Brazil, India, Peru, the Philippines and Vietnam.

Dengue is an infection found in tropical and sub-tropical climates worldwide, with a small number of cases in southern Europe in recent years. It is spread by Aedes mosquito bites, and can cause a severe flu-like illness.

Advice for 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 for travellers on dengue fever is available on the TRAVAX (for health professionals) and fitfortravel (for the general public) websites.

Source: TRAVAX, 2 December 2021