Cambodian dengue rates have doubled
In Cambodia, rates of dengue fever are more than twice as high this year than for the same period in 2017.
Authorities are concerned that there could be a large outbreak during the peak summer season in July/August.
Cycles of dengue run every five to six years and the last was in 2012 when up to 40,000 cases and 160 deaths were reported. According to a recent study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal, in the two months following dengue fever infection, risk of stroke is increased by up to 2.49 times.
Dengue is spread by two types of Aedes mosquito, both of which breed close to dwellings, are found in shady areas and bite mainly during the daylight hours, which makes them difficult to avoid outdoors. Travellers are advised to cover up with long-sleeved tops, long trousers, and shoes and socks when mosquitoes are most active. They should also apply a repellent containing an active ingredient – such as DEET, Picaridin, or PMD – to all exposed skin when outdoors.