Dengue Fever in Brazil (Update)
28 May 2013
Dengue fever is an ongoing problem in Brazil:
Between August 2012 and May 2013, Parana state recorded 40 688 cases of dengue fever. The municipality most affected in 2013, is Foz do Iguacu with 5750 cases, of which 1452 have been confirmed.
Sao Paulo state is reporting a dengue epidemic affecting 24 municipalities. The municipality most affected is Sao Jose do Rio Preto with almost 6200 cases.
The Baixada Santista area on the southern coast of Brazil has recorded more than 13 000 cases of dengue fever. The municipalities most affected are: Santos 4988 cases, Praia Grande 4215, Cubatao 1781, Sao Vicente 1095, Guaruja 498 and Peruibe 417 cases.
Advice for Travellers
It should be noted that the city of Foz do Iguacu is a popular tourist destination for travellers intending to visit Iguacu Falls. 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.