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New cases of dengue fever continue to be reported from the island of Madeira since the outbreak was first identified on 3 October 2012. The Portuguese Ministry of Health has confirmed a total of 52 cases of dengue fever with a further 404 probable cases identified. Forty individuals required hospitalisation for care and 5 remain in hospital; no deaths have been reported.
Importantly, dengue fever has recently been confirmed in European travellers returning from Madeira who were likely to have been infected during their stay on the island: France (2), Sweden (1) and the United Kingdom (1). The case residing in the United Kingdom is recovering. The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) advises that further cases may be expected in the coming weeks.
(Via ECDC- accessed 26/10/12)
Advice for Travellers
The recent 4 cases of dengue fever in returning travellers highlights the importance that travellers protect themselves from mosquito bites by taking the necessary precautions.
In light of dengue fever in returning travellers, ECDC re-enforces the advice that those who have visited Madeira and experience febrile symptoms with severe headache, retro-orbital pain, myalgia, arthralgia and maculo-papular rash within 14 days of their trip seek medical advice.
