Thailand Travel Because of dengue fever urgently look for mosquito repellent

Dangerous Dengue Fever: Thailand tourists should protect themselves from mosquitoes

If you are planning your holiday in Thailand, you should definitely think of mosquito repellent during the travel preparations. For in the Southeast Asian country currently the dengue fever cases are piling up. The dangerous disease is also common in other countries of the region.

Dangerous infectious diseases in Southeast Asia

Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia: Southeast Asia is one of the most popular holiday destinations in the world. Every year, millions of tourists travel to the area to relax on dream beaches, visit ancient temples and enjoy the wonderful food. However, these countries also pose various health threats due to tropical diseases. Most recently, an accumulation of dengue fever cases in Thailand is mentioned.

In Thailand, dengue fever infections are currently on the rise. Tourists should therefore pay attention to adequate mosquito protection. (Image: carloscastilla / fotolia.com)

More and more dengue cases in Thailand

In Thailand, about 7,560 dengue fever infections have been reported since the beginning of the year, twelve people died, reports the Center for Travel Medicine (CRM) on its website.

"Particularly affected are the region around Bangkok and the south of the country," say the experts.

According to the data, more than 50,030 illnesses and 59 deaths were reported last year. These were the highest case numbers in 20 years.

"There is a risk of infection throughout the year, the main transmission time is the months of July and August," says the CRM.

In addition to Thailand, countries such as Malaysia, Singapore, Vietnam and the Philippines are also affected.

Avoid mosquito bites

Malaria also causes many tourists worries. This fear is justified because resistant pathogens have been spreading in Southeast Asia for years.

To protect against the dangerous infectious diseases, avoid mosquito bites. Wearing bright, loose clothes and using mosquito nets are ways to help against annoying mosquitoes.

Above all, the chemical defense is effective. As mosquito repellent agents are recommended with the active ingredient DEET (diethyltoluamide).

Dengue transmitter stings during the day

Malaria is transmitted by the Anopheles mosquito, which is active during dusk. Dengue fever, on the other hand, is transmitted by the diurnal Asian tiger mosquito.

After an incubation period of three to 14 days, Dengue can sometimes develop flu-like symptoms such as headaches and body aches. Some patients experience an itchy rash.

Not all infected develop disease symptoms. Most of the complaints last about a week. In the majority of those affected the dengue fever disappears without further consequences. A vaccine against the disease is not available. (Ad)