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Dengue Fever in Australia

14 Jun 2012

Two confirmed cases of dengue fever have been reported in Townsville, north Queensland. This makes a total of four as two other cases were identied last week also. Three of the cases are locally aquired infections and the third is thought to have contracted the illness in Bali. A further two suspected cases are awaiting confirmation.

The Townsville City Council is urging residents to be vigilant and minimize mosquito breeding sites. This latest outbreak indicates that the risk of dengue fever is present all year round in Townsville.

Advice for Travellers

Dengue fever is a disease that is spread by the day-biting, Aedes aegypti mosquito. The disease can cause an acute flu-like illness that affects infants, young children and adults, but seldom causes death.

There are no specific medications available to prevent or treat dengue fever. Travellers must ensure that they use bite avoidance measures including insect repellents when visiting risk areas.