Dengue fever in the Caribbean

Dengue fever is transmitted in many Caribbean islands, including tourist destinations. The following countries have provided current information on dengue in this regions:

• Dominican Republic - almost 14,000 cases with 92 deaths
• Puerto Rico - almost 1,700 cases
• US Virgin Islands - 6 suspected and confirmed cases
• Jamaica - approximately 60 cases

Porada

The risk of exposure for the general traveller in the Caribbean is difficult to determine, since few countries have reported the extent of dengue fever transmission. In the absence of information, travellers should be cautious and 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.