Big increase in dengue fever reports in Thailand

In just one week, the number of people infected with the dengue fever virus has grown from 583 people reported by 53 provinces to 2,380 people in 67 provinces. Bangkok is the most affected province.

Advice

At present, the risk of exposure to dengue fever for the general traveller to Bangkok is quite low (e.g., only an estimated 2 people out of every 10,000 have been infected). However, the risk will increase if the reported trend (quadrupling in cases every week) continues.

All travellers to areas where the dengue fever virus is active can reduce their risk of exposure by taking all necessary precautions to avoid mosquito bites. Many persons with dengue fever do not seek medical care and are not reported to health authorities. There may be many more cases in the community than the reports indicate.