The Cape Verde islands have been added to the list of destinations with heightened health risks. On Wednesday, the United Kingdom Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) issued a travel advisory warning travelers of a significant rise in dengue fever cases across three of the archipelago’s most visited islands: Santiago, Fogo, and Brava. While the islands continue to attract tourists with their stunning volcanic landscapes and serene beaches, the recent dengue outbreak has raised concerns for those planning to visit.
What is Dengue Fever?
Dengue fever is transmitted by the bite of an infected mosquito, primarily the Aedes aegypti species, which is most active during the daytime. The virus thrives in tropical and subtropical climates, particularly during rainy seasons when mosquito populations increase. While dengue fever is not typically life-threatening, it can lead to severe symptoms and complications requiring hospitalization.
Symptoms of dengue fever usually appear four to ten days after being bitten by an infected mosquito. Common signs include high fever, severe headaches, muscle and joint pain, nausea, vomiting, and skin rashes. Most people recover from dengue within a week, but in more severe cases, it can develop into dengue hemorrhagic fever, a serious condition that requires immediate medical intervention.
Safety Precautions for Travelers
To minimize the risk of contracting dengue fever, travelers are advised to take precautions such as:
- Use mosquito repellents containing DEET or picaridin.
- Wear long sleeves and pants, especially during peak mosquito activity.
- Staying in accommodations with air conditioning or using mosquito nets.
- Avoiding stagnant water, where mosquitoes breed.
