Dengue fever

Dengue fever, also known as breakbone fever, is a viral infection caused by a virus spread by mosquito bites. It is currently one of the fastest spreading mosquito-borne diseases in the world. The virus is transmitted by the tiger mosquito, which breeds in places that hold water, like old car tyres, cans, buckets, and flower vases. Often these are items used in household environments. This mosquito is only active during the day and primarily in the morning and evening hours.

Where does dengue occur?

Dengue is most found in tropical regions of Asia, the Pacific islands, the Caribbean, Central and South America, and Africa. Dengue also occurs in Mexico, southern Texas and north-eastern Australia. The risk of dengue is higher in large cities compared to rural areas. Epidemics of dengue generally happen during and in the weeks after rainy seasons.

What are the symptoms?

On average, the incubation period is 5 to 7 days after the sting.

• Sudden rapidly rising (high) fever
• Cold chills
• Headache and pain behind the eyes
• Muscle, bone and joint pain
• Nausea and vomiting
• Sore throat, coughing
• Skin rash
• Fatigue

How to prevent dengue?

The best way to prevent dengue is to avoid mosquito bites. You can do this by wearing long-sleeved clothing and using mosquito repellents that contain DEET. There is a vaccine (Qdenga) against dengue.

This vaccine offers about 80% protection against dengue. It is particularly effective for people who have been previously infected with this virus. While a first infection is often mild, a second one can lead to serious illness. The vaccine prevents hospitalization in 95% of all infected cases and requires two doses spaced three months apart.

However, not everyone can get vaccinated. This includes children under 4 years old, pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and those with immune deficiencies. The Qdenga vaccine has only recently become available, so it’s not yet clear how long the protection lasts. As of August 2024, there is a nationwide shortage of the dengue vaccine. This means you may not be able to get vaccinated against dengue even if the vaccine is recommended for your trip. No new vaccination series will be started or very limited series. For people who have already had one shot, efforts are made to give the second shot so that the basic series of two doses is complete. Please contact us for personalised advice and the possibilities before making an appointment.

In summary: prevention is better than cure. Therefore, make sure to take all mosquito prevention methods necessary so you can travel safely and well prepared.

More information

Would you like to know more about dengue? Please visit the RIVM's information page: Dengue | RIVM.