Dengue outbreaks are increasing across multiple countries worldwide, raising concerns for travelers, business visitors, and those visiting family abroad. Experts advise taking mosquito prevention measures during trips and seeking medical care promptly if symptoms such as fever develop after returning, along with informing doctors of travel history.
According to the latest Travel Health Notices from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 16 countries-including Vietnam, Bangladesh, the Maldives, and Cuba-have reported a significant rise in dengue cases and are now classified under Level 1 alert. These countries span Asia, Oceania, the Americas, and Africa, indicating a broadening spread.
In recent years, most imported dengue cases in Taiwan have been linked to Southeast and South Asia, highlighting the connection between international travel and disease transmission. As dengue is transmitted by mosquitoes and often shows mild or no early symptoms, prevention during travel and health monitoring after return are critical.
Preventive steps include eliminating standing water before departure, using repellents containing DEET, Picaridin, or IR3535, wearing light-colored long-sleeved clothing, and choosing accommodations with screens or air conditioning. Extra precautions are recommended during peak mosquito activity at dawn and dusk.
The Kaohsiung City Government Health Bureau noted that recent imported cases in the city are mainly linked to travel from Thailand and the Maldives, followed by visits to Vietnam and cases among migrant workers from Indonesia and the Philippines. A second imported case has been reported this year. The city also provides incentives, including NT$500 vouchers for symptomatic arrivals who undergo screening, NT$1,000 vouchers and transport subsidies for those under observation until PCR results are confirmed, and NT$2,500 rewards for confirmed cases.
Authorities also urge that within 14 days after returning from high-risk areas, individuals with symptoms should seek medical care promptly and disclose travel history to help prevent community transmission.
