Dengue Fever

Dengue is a viral infection spread by day-biting Aedes mosquitoes. It causes a high fever with severe headache, pain behind the eyes, aching muscles and joints and a rash — bad enough to be nicknamed “breakbone fever”. Most people recover in a week or two, but a second infection with a different strain can be severe. There is no specific treatment.

Where the risk is

Throughout the tropics and subtropics: South and South East Asia, the Pacific, Central and South America, the Caribbean and Africa. Cases now occur most summers in southern France, Italy and Spain too. Because the mosquito bites by day and lives in towns, city travellers are just as exposed as rural ones.

The vaccine

Qdenga is a live vaccine given as two injections three months apart, suitable from four years of age. It is recommended chiefly for travellers who have had dengue before, for whom a second infection carries the greatest risk. For people who have never had it, the evidence is less clear and the pharmacist will talk through whether it is right for your trip. It is not given in pregnancy, while breastfeeding, or to anyone with a weakened immune system.

Bite avoidance is still the main defence

Repellent containing DEET during the day, long sleeves and trousers in light colours, and accommodation with screens or air conditioning. These are what protect most travellers.

Not sure whether you need this one? Book the travel consultation instead and the pharmacist will go through your trip with you.