Urgent travel warning for Aussies heading to Bali
Australians seeking to escape the winter cold in Bali have been issued an urgent travel advisory following a rise in dengue cases on the Indonesian island.
Travelers are advised to take precautions against the mosquito-borne disease, which can cause serious illness and even death.
Dengue fever cases in Western Australia have tripled compared to the same period last year, with 80 percent of cases reporting recent travel to Indonesia.
Indonesia has reported more than 90,000 cases of dengue this year, with experts warning that the disease should be taken very seriously.
“While most people will experience mild flu-like symptoms, the disease can be fatal, especially for those who become infected with dengue fever for a second time,” Professor Paul Effler from the WA Department of Health told me. 7News.
‘The best defense against dengue fever is to protect yourself from mosquito bites when visiting Bali or other high-risk areas. If you do become seriously ill abroad, it is important to seek medical help immediately.’
Dengue fever is spread by mosquitoes and is more common in tropical and subtropical climates – already this year.
The World Health Organization (WHO) said most people who get dengue fever will have no symptoms.
Australians looking to escape Bali’s winter chill have been issued an urgent travel advisory as there has been a rise in dengue cases (stock 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 gums or nosebleeds.
When traveling to Bali, it is recommended to avoid areas with many mosquitoes and wear protective clothing such as long-sleeved shirts and long pants.
Travelers are advised to take precautions against the mosquito-borne disease in Bali (pictured), which can cause serious illness and even death
Travelers should also use chemical-based insect repellent, sleep under a mosquito net, and close all doors and windows if they do not have mosquito screens.
On Friday it was announced that Australian travelers may have to pay an even higher tourist tax upon arrival on the holiday island.
Indonesian politicians are pushing for an increase from the current rate of $15 or IDR 150,000, which they consider too low.
They propose to increase the fee to around IDR800,000, which is equivalent to $AUS75.