Australians looking to escape the winter cold in Bali have been issued an urgent travel warning amid a surge in dengue fever cases on the Indonesian island.
Travelers are advised to take precautions against mosquito-borne illness, which can cause serious illness and even death.
The number of dengue cases in Western Australia has tripled compared to the same period last year, with 80 per cent of these cases reporting recent travel to Indonesia.
Indonesia has reported more than 90,000 cases of dengue this year and experts warn that the disease must be taken very seriously.
“Although most people will experience mild flu-like symptoms, the disease can be fatal, especially for those who become infected with dengue a second time,” said Professor Paul Effler of the Washington Department of Health. 7News.
“The best defense against dengue is to protect yourself from mosquito bites when visiting Bali or other high-risk areas. If you become seriously ill abroad, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.”
Dengue is transmitted by mosquitoes and is most common in tropical and subtropical climates (already this year).
The World Health Organization (WHO) said that most people who contract dengue will not show any symptoms.
Australians looking to escape the winter cold in Bali have been issued with an urgent travel warning – there has been a rise in dengue fever cases (file image)
But for those who do get sick, the most common symptoms are fever, rash, headache, fatigue, and joint and muscle pain.
In severe cases, people may experience abdominal pain, vomiting, and bleeding from the gums or nose.
Anyone travelling to Bali is advised to try to avoid areas with high mosquito activity and to wear protective clothing such as long-sleeved shirts and long trousers.
Travelers are advised to take precautions against mosquito-borne disease in Bali (pictured), which can cause serious illness and even death.
Travelers should also use a chemical-based insect repellent, sleep under a mosquito net, and close all doors and windows if they do not have screens.
In other Bali news on Friday, it emerged that Australian travellers could be forced to pay an even higher tourist tax upon arrival on the resort island.
Indonesian politicians are pushing for an increase in the current fee, which they consider inadequate ($15 or IDR 150,000).
They propose to increase the fee to approximately IDR800,000, equivalent to $AUS75.
