Dengue Fever: What Travellers Need to Know and How to Stay Protected
As international travel increases, especially to tropical destinations, so does the risk of encountering illnesses that aren’t common in the UK. One of the most concerning is Dengue Fever, a viral infection transmitted by mosquitoes. While many people associate mosquito-borne diseases with malaria, dengue is rapidly becoming a global health threat, particularly for travellers heading to Asia, Latin America, or Africa.
At DMB Chemist and Tower Pharmacy, we’re committed to keeping you safe wherever your adventures take you. That’s why we offer the Dengue Fever vaccine- administered in two doses- to help protect you from this potentially serious illness. The vaccine costs £100 per dose, but prices may vary depending on availability and other travel services.
What is Dengue Fever?
Dengue is caused by a virus transmitted by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, which is active during the daytime, unlike malaria-carrying mosquitoes. Once infected, a person can experience a sudden onset of high fever, severe headaches, intense muscle and joint pain (often described as a “break-bone” sensation), and skin rashes. While most cases are mild, severe dengue—also known as dengue haemorrhagic fever—can cause internal bleeding, shock, and, in rare cases, death.
Who is at Risk?
Dengue fever is a major risk for anyone travelling to or living in tropical and subtropical regions, especially areas in:
Southeast Asia (e.g., Thailand, Indonesia, Philippines)
Central and South America (e.g., Brazil, Mexico, Colombia)
Sub-Saharan Africa
The Caribbean
Urban environments with standing water are hotspots for mosquito breeding, making cities just as risky as rural destinations.
What Are the Symptoms of Dengue?
Symptoms usually appear 4–10 days after being bitten and can include:
High fever (typically over 39°C)
Severe headache
Pain behind the eyes
Joint and muscle aches
Skin rash or red spots
Fatigue and nausea
In some cases, symptoms worsen and may include:
Bleeding gums or nosebleeds
Severe stomach pain
Constant vomiting
Feeling dizzy or faint
If you experience any of these severe symptoms, seek medical help immediately.
Is There a Cure for Dengue?
Unfortunately, there is no specific antiviral treatment for dengue fever. The main approach is symptom relief:
Rest and avoid strenuous activity
Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated
Use paracetamol for fever and pain (avoid ibuprofen or aspirin, as they can increase bleeding risks)
Recovery can take up to 2 weeks, with fatigue lasting longer in some cases.
How Can You Protect Yourself?
Prevention is key when it comes to dengue. Here are effective ways to reduce your risk:
Use insect repellent daily, especially during daylight hours
Wear long-sleeved shirts and trousers, especially in the early morning and late afternoon
Sleep under a mosquito net or in rooms with mosquito screens or air conditioning
Remove standing water near living spaces (if staying in long-term accommodation)
Get Vaccinated Before You Go
If you’re travelling to a region where dengue is common, the safest approach is prevention through vaccination. At DMB Chemist and Tower Pharmacy, we offer the Dengue Fever vaccine, which is administered in two doses spaced 3 months apart. For most travellers, it’s best to plan your vaccination at least 4-8 weeks before departure to ensure full protection.
Plan Ahead with DMB Chemist and Tower Pharmacy
Our Travel Health Clinic is staffed by knowledgeable professionals who can guide you through everything from vaccinations to travel-specific medications and insect repellent advice. Whether it’s Dengue, Yellow Fever, or Malaria, we’re here to help you travel smarter and safer.