Dengue Fever in Bali: Symptoms, Risks & When Tourists Should Get Medical Care

While visitng Bali is an unforgetable experience flled with beautful beaches, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes, it’s important to be aware of certain health risks that come with traveling to tropical regions. One such concern is dengue fever, a mosquito-born viral infecton that is prevalent not only in Indonesia but also in many other tropical and subtropical areas around the world.

In Indonesia, dengue fever cases tend to increase signifcantly during the rainy season, which typically spans from November to April. The peak months are January to March, when rainfall and humidity are at their highest. These conditons provide ideal breeding grounds for Aedes aegypt mosquitoes, which transmit the dengue virus.

Dengue is caused by the dengue virus, transmited to humans through the bites of infected Aedes mosquitoes, primarily Aedes aegypt. The infecton can range from mild to severe, with symptoms typically appearing 4–10 days afer the bite. Common symptoms include:

• Sudden High fever (up to 40°C/104°F)
• Severe headache
• Pain behind the eyes
• Muscle and joint pains
• Nausea and vomitng
• Swollen glands
• Skin rash

Most people recover within 1–2 weeks. However, some cases progress to severe dengue, also known as dengue haemorrhagic fever, which can cause serious complicatons like bleeding, low platelet count, and plasma leakage, potentally leading to shock and death if not promptly treated.

Dengue is caused by any of the four related dengue viruses (DENV-1, DENV-2, DENV-3, and DENV-4). A person can be infected with dengue multple tmes in their life. While infecton with one serotype provides lifelong immunity to that serotype, it offers only partal and temporary protecton against the others.

Preventng dengue involves protectng oneself from mosquito bites and controlling mosquito populatons. Effectve measures include:

• Using mosquito repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus
• Wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants
• Using mosquito nets while sleeping
• Ensuring windows and doors have screens to prevent mosquitoes from entering
• Eliminatng standing water in containers, tres, flower pots, and other places where mosquitoes can breed

Vaccinaton is available in some countries for individuals aged 9–16 years with a confrmed prior dengue infecton and living in endemic areas.

There is no specifc antviral treatment for dengue fever. Management focuses on relieving symptoms and includes:

• Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids
• Taking acetaminophen (paracetamol) to reduce fever and relieve pain
• Avoiding non-steroidal ant-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen and aspirin, as they can increase the risk of bleeding

In cases of severe dengue, hospitalizaton is necessary for close monitoring and supportve care, such as intravenous fluid replacement and blood transfusions if required.

Read More! Swimmer’s Ear in Bali: Causes, Symptoms & When Tourists Should See a Doctor

Practcal Tips and When to Seek Medical Atenton

• Monitor for warning signs of severe dengue, such as severe abdominal pain, persistent vomitng, rapid breathing, bleeding gums, fatgue, restlessness, and blood in vomit.
• Seek immediate medical atenton if any of these symptoms occur.
• If symptoms worsen or do not improve afer 1–2 days, consult a healthcare provider promptly.

For residents in Bali, or nearby areas, if you or someone you know exhibits symptoms of dengue fever, it’s crucial to seek medical care promptly. Facilites like 911 Medical Clinic are equipped to provide appropriate care and management for dengue cases. Don’t wait to seek help when the symptom shown.

911 Medical Clinic offers reliable, professional care with experienced doctors who can accurately diagnose and manage dengue fever. Equipped with proper laboratory facilites, the clinic ensures prompt testng, monitoring, and treatment to prevent complicatons. For safe and effectve medical care in a comfortable environment, trust 911 Medical Clinic—your health is our priority.

References:

1. 1Bandeira, M. L. et al. Dengue Overview: An Updated Systematc Review. ScienceDirect; 2023.
2. Vasudevan, S. et al. Management of Dengue: An Updated Review. PubMed Central; 2022.
3. Janssens, J. et al. Dengue Fever: A Narratve Review Artcle. Auctores; 2023.