Health Alert
Dengue in Brazil
Updated March 2, 2016Released: February 25, 2016
Travel Health Notice
Dengue remains a public health problem in the Americas despite efforts to stop outbreaks and lessen their impact.
In 2015, the Americas and Caribbean region reported more than 2.5 million probable and confirmed dengue cases, according to the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO). More than 1.5 million of the cases occurred in Brazil.
Dengue
is a disease spread to humans by the bite of an infected mosquito and is caused by one of four types of dengue viruses. Dengue can cause severe flu-like symptoms and in some cases, may lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
There is no vaccine available in Canada or medication that protects against dengue.
The Public Health Agency of Canada recommends that travellers protect themselves from mosquito bites when travelling to areas where dengue may occur.
Recommendations
Consult a health care provider or visit a travel health clinic preferably six weeks before you travel.
- Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times, as the dengue virus is transmitted by a mosquito that can bite in daylight and evening hours. This includes the use of insect repellant and protective clothing.
- If you develop symptoms similar to dengue when you are travelling or after you return, see a health care provider and tell them where you have been travelling or living.