Warning of dengue fever in Madeira
Health experts have warned travellers to use insect repellent after an outbreak of dengue fever in a popular holiday resort.
The Health Protection Agency (HPA) said that since the start of October there have been 18 confirmed cases and 191 probable cases in Madeira, Portugal.
No UK travellers have contracted the infection so far, but experts have warned those visiting the island to take extra care around mosquitoes.
Dengue fever is a viral infection spread by mosquitoes. Symptoms include a fever, headache and bone, muscle and joint pain. It can lead to more serious complications.
The HPA said it is the first time the infection has been identified in Madeira and local health experts are implementing control and prevention measures.
Dr Jane Jones, a travel-associated infection expert at the HPA, said: “Dengue fever cannot be passed from person to person and infection occurs after being bitten by the Aedes mosquito carrying the virus.
“To minimise the risk of being bitten it is advisable to wear appropriate clothing to cover up – such as long sleeve tops and trousers, and to use insect repellents.”
Dr Dipti Patel, joint director of the National Travel Health Network and Centre, said: “There is no specific preventive medicine or vaccination against dengue fever and prevention relies on avoiding mosquito bites particularly around dusk and dawn when the day-biting mosquitoes are most active.
“Anyone who develops a fever or flu-like symptoms within two weeks of returning from a trip to Madeira should seek medical advice from NHS Direct or their GP.”
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