Is Visiting Sri Lanka Safe From Dengue?

Dengue fever is a significant health risk in Sri Lanka, with outbreaks occurring every 2-5 years. Travelers to risk areas should exercise high caution and be aware of the potential risks associated with this infection. Dengue fever is a viral disease spread by mosquito bites and can cause flu-like symptoms. It is a serious issue in Sri Lanka, especially along the western coast and in Colombo. The monsoon season can exacerbate the problem due to the increased rainfall.

Since the beginning of 2023, the National Dengue Control Unit (NDCU) in Sri Lanka has warned of an increase in dengue cases due to persistent rain. Since the beginning of 2023, Sri Lanka has reported 24,815 dengue cases and 9 deaths so far. To protect yourself from this infection, use mosquito repellent and seek medical help if you have a fever.

In addition to dengue fever, other insect-borne diseases such as chikungunya, Japanese encephalitis, and filariasis also pose a risk in Sri Lanka. To protect yourself, practice usual precautions, avoid all travel, and consider seeking medical attention during travel.

In conclusion, Dengue fever is a significant health risk in Sri Lanka, particularly during the monsoon season. Travelers should be aware of the potential risks associated with this infection and take necessary precautions to protect themselves.

Do tourists get dengue fever?

Dengue is the second most common cause of fever in international travelers, caused by the dengue virus. The virus is spread by infected mosquitoes, usually Aedes aegypti, which bite during the day. Dengue is widespread in the tropics and subtropics, affecting over 120 countries. The disease is characterized by white stripes on their legs.

Is it safe to travel in Sri Lanka right now?

Travel to Sri Lanka is generally safe, but it is important to be aware of recent events. In 2022, Sri Lanka experienced frequent, violent protests due to the country’s severe economic crisis, leading to shortages of essentials and disrupting daily services. In July 2022, then-prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe declared Sri Lanka bankrupt. Since 2023, things have calmed down, with tourism playing a crucial role in recovery. However, Sri Lanka’s economic woes continue, and an election is due towards the end of 2024, causing further protests.

The Foreign Office warns that demonstrations can occur anywhere across the island at short notice and can become violent, with security authorities using water cannons and tear gas to control protesters. Travelers are advised to avoid demonstrations, political protests, or large gatherings and to monitor local media.

Do I need malaria tablets for Sri Lanka?

Malaria risk in Sri Lanka is classified as very low due to a decline in reported cases. Travelers to areas north of Vavuniua have a low risk, but still need to take precautions to avoid insect bites. Bed nets, insect repellent, and long-sleeved clothing should be used after sunset. If malaria symptoms develop, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms can develop weeks or months after returning from a holiday, so it’s crucial to see a doctor. Your Superdrug nurse or pharmacist will assess your need for antimalarial based on your medical history and itinerary.

How likely am I to get dengue?

Dengue fever is a common travel illness, with up to 70% of infected travelers returning from tropical areas. The risk increases with longer stays, early morning or evening bites, and seasonality. To prevent Dengue, three main actions should be taken: maintaining personal protection, getting vaccinated, and preventing mosquito bites. These include sleeping under mosquito bed nets, using insect repellents regularly, and wearing appropriate clothing such as long pants and long-sleeved tops.

Is dengue fever common in Sri Lanka?

Dengue in Sri Lanka is primarily transmitted during the summer monsoon, with two peak periods occurring in June-July and October-December. Currently, all districts report cases, with Colombo, Gampaha, and Kalutara districts in the western province having the highest case rate during the epidemic year.

How bad are mosquitoes in Sri Lanka?

Travelers should be aware of the risk of dengue fever due to persistent and aggressive mosquitoes that transmit the disease during the day. To protect themselves, avoid mosquito bites at all times and seek medical advice if you develop a high temperature during or after traveling to an affected area. Provide details of your recent travel history.

What are the chances of getting dengue after a mosquito bite?

Severe dengue infection is more likely to develop in up to 5 people, as it takes multiple bites or infections from infected mosquitoes for serious illness to develop. This means that individuals at a higher risk of developing severe dengue are more likely to contract the disease.

Is tourism back to normal in Sri Lanka?

Sri Lanka’s tourism industry has seen a rise in arrivals, with the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority reporting a 1. 5 million increase in 2022, but still 1 million fewer than 2018. Early data suggests that Sri Lanka is on track to surpass the Maldives as a tourist destination, a gap it had lagged behind in the past four years. The diplomatic row between India and the Maldives may have influenced more Indian travelers to choose Sri Lankan destinations.

Traditionally, Indians make up the largest segment of tourists in Sri Lanka, visiting for business or family events. However, the trend is changing, with more well-educated Indians enjoying vacations and big Indian private-sector corporations booking resort hotels for annual retreats.

How to prevent dengue in Sri Lanka?

To prevent mosquito bites, wear protective clothing and use mosquito repellents. Use mosquito nets when sleeping and regularly remove breeding sites like discarded tires, plastic containers, coconut shells, leaf axils, blocked gutters, bird baths, and flower vases. Several registered chemicals under the Registrar of Pesticides can be used as effective mosquito repellents. Regularly remove breeding sites and dispose of discarded items to prevent mosquito infestations.

Which month is dengue in India?

Delhi, a north Indian city, has experienced several reported dengue outbreaks in September and October, indicating a shift from an epidemic to endemic and hyper-endemic status.