Dengue

Dengue is an infectious disease caused by a virus transmitted by the tiger mosquito. In most cases dengue infections are asymptomatic and therefore not even noticed. When symptoms do occur, this is called dengue fever. Symptoms of dengue fever include fever, headache, muscle/limb pain, and a red blotchy skin rash. In most cases, these symptoms resolve on their own, but they can be severe.  

Historically, dengue has occurred in tropical and subtropical regions between the latitudes of 35°N and 35°S as this is the natural habitat for the vector for the disease, the tiger mosquito. With climate change, the natural habitat for the tiger mosquito has gradually expanded north and south of this zone, thus expanding the spread of dengue. You can find more detailed information about this on HealthyTravel.

An important and, if used correctly, effective measure of protection is mosquito bite prevention. The tiger mosquito prefers urban environments where the most people can be found. Therefore, when staying in a dengue risk area, it is recommended to:

• wear long-sleeved, light-colored, insecticide-treated loose clothing,
• apply a mosquito repellent to exposed skin during the day and evening,
• and sleep under a mosquito net in a room with air conditioning and closed windows.

The Qdenga® vaccine is inoculated to protect against a new (second) dengue infection. Two doses at least three months apart (0.3) are required for basic immunization.

The vaccination is indicated for travelers aged four years and older who have already had a dengue infection more than 6 months ago and are planning a stay in a region with significant dengue transmission.