Dengue fever in Singapore, Vietnam and Thailand (summary)

Large numbers of cases, deaths and outbreaks have been reported in these countries. In Singapore , there have been more than 13,600 dengue fever cases reported so far this year; however, the peak of the epidemic may have been reached, since the number of reported cases appears to be decreasing. In Vietnam , there have been 25,300 cases reported across the country, along with 16 deaths. The province of Phu Yen has been heavily affected. In Thailand , the epidemic has been extensive with 81,763 cases and 80 deaths reported nationally. The province of Chiang Mai has been the most affected in the past week.

There may be many more unreported cases of dengue since counting and reporting cases may be hampered by lack of local access to health care, and many persons with mild illness may not seek health care. Travellers to areas where the dengue fever virus is active can reduce their risk of exposure to dengue fever virus by taking all necessary precautions to avoid mosquito bites.