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The Public Health Authority of Portugal has issued an update on the outbreak of dengue virus infection in residents of the Autonomous Region of Madeira, Portugal.
As of 10 October 2012, a cumulative total of 18 confirmed cases of dengue fever have been recorded, with a further 191 probable cases awaiting confirmation. A total of 26 cases have required treatment in hospital. Eleven cases remain in hospital at present.
(Via Diretor-Geral Da Saude - accessed 11/10/12 (in Portuguese))
Advice for Travellers
The main vector of dengue virus is the Aedes aegypti mosquito and it has been present on the island of Madeira since 2004. Aedes aegypti mosquitoes are not present on the mainland of Portugal which lies 1000 km from the island of Madeira.
Travellers should be made aware of the very low risk of dengue fever in Madeira. Travellers should take precautions to avoid mosquito bites at all times as the Aedes aegypti is a day-biting mosquito.
Travellers returning from Madeira who develop symptoms of dengue fever including fever, headache, joint and muscle pain or rash with 14 days of leaving the island, should contact their GP immediately.
Further information on mosquito bite avoidance measures is available for travellers via the TRAVAX Suitcase.
