Dengue fever is a global public health concern, and recently an alarming upsurge has been observed in Brazil. In January 2024, over 11,200 cases were reported in Rio de Janeiro, almost half the total for the previous year, highlighting the severity and extent of the epidemic. This situation is exacerbated by climatic factors such as El Niño and climate change, favoring a proliferation of Aedes mosquitoes, vectors of the disease. Before you travel to a high-risk area, whether or not it is affected by this infection, take out international health insurance!
Do I need health insurance to travel to Brazil in 2024?
For those planning to travel to Brazil or other dengue-affected regions, preparation is essential. The absence of symptoms in three quarters of those infected, and the similarity of symptoms to those of mild flu in the remainder, make dengue particularly treacherous. Severe forms of the disease, though rare, can lead to severe complications, underscoring the importance of proper medical follow-up. In this context, international health insurance becomes an invaluable asset. Not only does it guarantee coverage of medical expenses in case of need, it also offers real peace of mind, knowing that medical assistance is available 24/7. In countries where dengue is endemic, and particularly in Brazil with the current situation, being covered is not only recommended, it’s a necessity. Get a free quote for your international health insurance today!
Is dengue fever considered a serious illness?
Dengue fever is indeed considered a serious disease, especially in its severe forms. It is caused by the dengue virus, transmitted to humans by the bites of infected mosquitoes, mainly of the Aedes species. There are four serotypes of the dengue virus, and infection with one of them confers lifelong immunity against that specific serotype, but only partial and temporary immunity against the other serotypes.
The majority of dengue virus infections are asymptomatic or manifest as mild symptoms that may include :
- Fever,
- Headaches,
- Muscle and joint pain,
- Fatigue,
- Nausea and vomiting,
- A rash.
These symptoms can be similar to those of other diseases, making diagnosis difficult without specific tests. In most cases, there’s nothing to worry about: the infection heals spontaneously within ten days.
However, a small proportion of infected people can develop severe forms of the disease, known as severe dengue or dengue hemorrhagic fever. These severe forms can lead to life-threatening complications, such as shock, internal bleeding and vital organs ceasing to function properly. Severe dengue often requires hospitalization and intensive medical care.
How to prevent and protect yourself against dengue fever?
According to the World Health Organization, 40% of the world’s population is exposed to dengue fever. Prevention remains the best defense against dengue, mainly through minimizing the risk of mosquito bites, by adopting measures such as :
- Avoid stagnant water to prevent mosquitoes breeding.
- Apply repellents to skin and clothing.
- Wear covered clothing to protect against bites.
- Be more vigilant at peak mosquito activity times, such as sunrise and sunset.
However, given the uncertainty and risks inherent in traveling to affected areas, international health insurance provides an extra layer of security. It covers not only medical treatment, but also medical repatriation and access to medicines that may not be available locally. With the launch of a vaccination campaign in Brazil to control the epidemic, and the announcement of a promising single-dose vaccine for 2025, there’s hope for the future. However, until these vaccines become widely available, prevention, combined with comprehensive health insurance, remains the safest strategy for travelers to Brazil.
As the world continues to battle dengue fever, the importance of adequate preparation for international travel has never been more crucial. Mondassur’s international health insurance is a complete solution, offering not only financial protection but also the logistical support you need to deal with unexpected health problems abroad. Choosing Mondassur means choosing peace of mind, so you can concentrate on what really matters: your health.
