Dengue Fever in India (Update)
04 Dec 2012
The media has reported on the dengue fever situation in India. As of 26 November 2012, 37 070 cases and 227 deaths have been recorded nationwide, this compares with a total of 18 860 cases and 169 deaths in 2011.
Dengue fever has been reported from all major cities of the country; Kerala state in the south has reported the highest number of cases (3760), followed by Karnataka state (3640), Delhi has reported 1980 cases. Deaths from dengue have been highest in Tamil Nadu which reported 60 deaths; Maharashtra 59 and Delhi 4 deaths.
Advice for Travellers
India is a popular tourist destination and travellers should be aware of the risk of dengue fever. Avoidance of mosquito bites, particularly during daylight hours, by covering up with clothing, the use of bite avoidance measures such as repellent and bed nets is advised. Elimination of breeding sites around hotel rooms/houses is advised for longer term stays.