When we think of Mediterranean holidays, we often dream of endless sunshine, idyllic beaches, and exotic cocktails. However, with the rise of dengue fever cases in popular destinations such as Greece, the threat of the disease may put a damper on vacation plans. So, should you be worried about dengue fever on your next Mediterranean holiday? We investigate the risks and precautions that you should take before embarking on your trip.
Dengue fever, a disease normally associated with tropical areas of the world, is now becoming more prevalent in parts of Europe due to climate change, according to researchers from the Hospital for Tropical Diseases in London. This comes after a woman from the UK contracted the virus while on holiday in the south of France in September 2022, amid an outbreak of over 30 locally transmitted cases. With climate change causing hotter temperatures and more rainfall, and increasing global trade and tourism, there may be more parts of Europe with the right combination of factors for dengue outbreaks, warned Dr Owain Donnelly.
Dengue fever is a virus found in many parts of the world and is usually not serious, but it is a common condition associated with travelling, according to Dr Babak Ashrafi. It’s most common in tropical areas including parts of Africa, Asia, Central and South America, the Caribbean, the Pacific islands and some southern areas of North America. You can also catch it in some parts of southern Europe during certain times of the year. The virus is passed by infected mosquito bites, with the mosquitoes that carry it biting during the day, requiring individuals to protect themselves. Symptoms can include fever, headache, pain behind the eyes, nausea, feeling achy and a visible red blotchy rash.
In terms of treatment, anyone feeling unwell after a mosquito bite should rest and remain hydrated until symptoms pass. Over-the-counter treatments such as paracetamol can help to bring down fever and minimise pain or discomfort, though anti-inflammatory medicines should be avoided. Anyone experiencing worsening or severe symptoms should seek medical help.
Preventing bites is key to protecting oneself from dengue, with measures such as wearing long clothes covering arms and legs, using repellent sprays, and keeping doors and windows closed to prevent bugs from entering. While cases of dengue in Europe have been reported, the risk of infection remains low, and severe illness even lower. Those who are medically vulnerable, such as people with weak immune systems, the elderly, the very young and pregnant women, may be advised to avoid countries with recorded incidents of dengue. It is important for surveillance and reporting mechanisms to ensure an accurate understanding of dengue spread.
In conclusion, while dengue fever is not typically associated with Mediterranean destinations, it is still important to take preventative measures to protect yourself while on holiday. The risk of contracting the virus is still present, especially if you are travelling to a country with a history of dengue outbreaks. It is crucial to stay aware of the symptoms and to seek medical attention if you do become ill. By taking the necessary precautions, you can enjoy a safe and healthy trip to the beautiful Mediterranean.
