Dangerous mosquito bite
Dengue fever on Lake Garda: this is what you need to know about the disease
The tiger mosquito transmits dengue fever
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Two people on Lake Garda have contracted dengue fever. This causes great uncertainty among residents and holidaymakers. Everything you should know about the virus.
How do I recognize a possible infection with dengue fever?
Classically, the virus is recognized by three symptoms that occur simultaneously: fever, rash and headache, body or joint pain. In rare cases, internal bleeding and shock can also occur.
Can I die from dengue fever?
With today’s healthcare, most cases are easily treatable. This means that there are rarely long-term consequences. In 1.5 percent of infections there is a severe course that can lead to death. With early detection, however, the mortality rate drops below 1 percent.
What can I do to protect myself from infection?
The best protection against infection is a reliable mosquito repellent. The virus is transmitted by infected tiger or yellow fever mosquitoes. So if you prevent a bite with mosquito repellent, you also protect yourself from dengue fever. You can also avoid still waters and wear a mosquito net.
Can I get vaccinated against dengue fever?
Vaccination against dengue fever is recommended if you frequently travel to tropical areas, because the transmitting mosquitoes are particularly active there. In Europe there are currently two approved vaccines against the virus, which since February 2023 can be injected by your family doctor or a tropical medicine doctor for a vacation.
Does dengue fever also exist in Germany?
In Germany, 600 to 800 cases of dengue fever are reported every year. In most cases, those affected have stayed in a tropical or subtropical holiday destination beforehand and brought the virus home with them. For comparison: There were 50 cases of fever throughout Italy this year. In general, the virus occurs mainly in countries with a warm climate, especially in cities.
Should I cancel my trip because of dengue fever?
So far, the infections at Lake Garda have been isolated cases. The Federal Foreign Office has long pointed out that isolated infections can occur in Italy. There is therefore currently no travel warning. As long as the situation does not worsen and you pay attention to a good mosquito repellent, there is nothing wrong with the trip.
Sources: South Tyrol News, tropical institute, Federal Ministry for Social Affairs and Health