Outbreaks caused by four types of the dengue fever virus have increased in the past 25 years. About 40% of the world’s population lives in areas where there is a risk of dengue fever.

Dengue fever is the most common viral disease spread to humans by mosquitoes. It can cause severe flu-like symptoms. In some cases it leads to dengue haemorrhagic fever, which can be fatal. There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue fever.

The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) recommends that travellers protect themselves from mosquito bites when travelling to areas where dengue fever may occur.

Where is Dengue Fever a concern?

Dengue fever occurs in most tropical and subtropical areas of the world, predominantly in urban and semi-urban areas.

Dengue is widespread in regions of Central and South America, parts of the Caribbean, South and South-East Asia, Africa, and the South Pacific.

Asia

A risk of dengue is present in South and Southeast Asia, including India, Indonesia, Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Vietnam.
In September 2010, Hong Kong confirmed its first case of locally-acquired dengue fever since 2002.

Central and South America and the Caribbean

The majority of countries in this region are reporting dengue activity.
Since the beginning of 2011, Bolivia, Brazil, Columbia, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Mexico, Paraguay, Peru, and Venezuela have reported a large number of dengue cases.

North America

Following an absence of a number of decades, dengue re-emerged in Florida in the United States in 2009. Since 2010, cases of locally-acquired dengue continue to be reported.

Europe

A very low risk of dengue exists in France due to the first two confirmed cases of locally-acquired dengue reported in Nice in September 2010. All previous cases in France have been among travellers returning from countries where dengue occurs.

Australia

Northern Queensland continues to report an outbreak of locally-acquired dengue.

A map of the areas where dengue occurs (External link) is on the website of the World Health Organization.

Recommendations

Consult a doctor, nurse or health care provider, or visit a travel health clinic at least six weeks before you travel.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites, particularly two to three hours after dawn and during the early evening.