Dengue Fever in Cuba
02 Oct 2012
The media has reported an outbreak of dengue fever in Cuba. The outbreak is occurring in the city of Cienfuegos on the west coast of northern Cuba. Provincial hospitals have recently seen large numbers of individuals with symptoms of dengue fever; as of 19 September 2012, 12 cases have been confirmed.
The Cienfuegos Provincial Epidemiology Centre has launched a major campaign to fumigate homes and clean up urban areas to eradicate mosquito breeding sites.
Advice for Travellers
Cuba 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.