Pan American Health Organization World Health Organization Dengue Fever Information for Travelers Please see the Destinations section for recommendations for specific countries. Dengue viruses are transmitted by mosquitoes, which are most active during the day. These vector mosquitoes are found near human habitations and are often present indoors. Epidemic transmission is usually seasonal, during and shortly after the rainy season.
Infection is diagnosed by a blood test that detects the presence of the virus or antibodies.
Dengue is commonly confused with other infectious illnesses such as influenza , measles , malaria , typhoid , leptospirosis , and scarlet fever. Travelers should alert their physician of any fever illnesses occurring within 3 weeks after leaving an endemic area. Travelers to tropical areas are advised to use mosquito repellents on skin and clothing, to bring aerosol insecticides to use indoors, and use bednets. The risk of dengue for each geographic area will have variations. The risk is generally higher in urban areas.