Dengue Fever Prevention

Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne virus affecting more than 390 million people each year. While the disease is generally mild, it can be deadly.

Recent research shows dengue is between 100 and 800 years old. It likely originated in Africa or Southeast Asia and was then carried to other parts of the world through travel and trade.

In recent years, dengue has spread to over 100 countries. Now, travellers to popular destinations like Brazil and India could contract the disease.

The virus is also known as ‘breakbone fever’ due to its symptoms.

Unlike other diseases, dengue has different symptoms depending on the stage it is in. According to the PHAC, dengue’s most common symptoms are:

Source: PHAC

The virus can show symptoms quickly. Fever, headache, joint pain and bleeding can last for up to seven days.

Generally, younger children and those experiencing their first dengue infection have milder symptoms. It is possible to contract dengue more than once.

To learn more about the signs and symptoms of dengue fever, contact a Passport Health Travel Specialist. Call or book an appointment online.

Serious cases of dengue will progress into dengue hemorrhagic fever or DHF. While dengue is generally ‘flu-like’ DHF can be fatal.

Early symptoms are the same as dengue. But, acute symptoms are more serious. The virus causes ‘leaky’ blood vessels, circulatory failure, shock and death.

There is no cure for dengue nor dengue hemorrhagic fever.

There is no specific antiviral treatment for dengue. Supportive care is used to help with symptoms. Usually, analgesics, hydration and bed rest are enough to help patients through their infection. If you suspect dengue during or after you trip, be sure to seek medical attention.

Because of the lack of a true dengue treatment, prevention is key while in regions with the disease.

One dengue vaccine, Dengvaxia has been approved for use in some countries. But, it is not yet available in Canada. This dengue vaccine has proven effective in tests conducted in Asia and Latin America.

Other dengue vaccines are in various trial stages throughout the world. This includes DENVax (Phase II trials), TDENV PIV (Phase II study) and V180 (Phase I stage). There is no timetable for when, or if, these vaccines will be available in Canada.

As of now, the best form of dengue protection for Canadian travellers is through preventing mosquito bites.

As a mosquito-borne disease, preventing dengue is as simple as preventing mosquito bites. There is no approved dengue vaccine in Canada.

Many health organizations suggest the following to protect yourself from dengue:

• Wear long-sleeve shirts and long pants.
• Treat clothes with repellents like permethrin.
• Use EPA-registered mosquito repellent like DEET.
• Consider using mosquito netting if you will be in an areas with many mosquitoes.
• Make sure windows and doors screens are closed to avoid allowing mosquitoes into inclosed spaces.
• Avoid areas with standing water. Especially at times of high mosquito activity like dawn and dusk.

Paspsort Health locations carry kits specifically designed to help prevent mosquito bites and mosquito-borne disease. Be sure to take one with you on your next trip.

For more information on mosquito bite prevention methods and what you can do to protect yourself and your family, speak with a travel health specialist by calling or booking online today.

Before 1970, dengue outbreaks were not common. Only nine countries had experience severe dengue epidemics. Since then, the disease has spread almost globally. An estimated 3.9 billion people are at risk of dengue infection in 128 countries. The countries and regions most affected by dengue fever include:

• Southeast Asia – Burma, India, Indonesia
• Western Pacific – Cambodia, Malaysia, Philippines
• South Cone – Argentina, Brazil (This region accounts for 64.6% of all dengue cases in the Americas.)
• Andean Mountains – Colombia, Ecuador, Peru
• Central America – Costa Rica, Honduras
• Caribbean Countries – Barbados, Cuba, Dominican Republic
• North America – Mexico, Southern United States
• Africa – Various portions of the continent have different levels of infections. But, it is generally less than Asia or the Americas.
• Eastern Mediterranean – Egypt, Israel, Libya

If you are planning a trip to any of these regions, be sure to speak with a travel health specialist about your itinerary. Health organizations recommend visiting a travel clinic like Passport Health, before your trip. To find out more call or book online now.