Aussie travellers issued major Bali health warning as dengue fever cases rise

Aussie tourists hoping to spend a carefree holiday in Bali have been issued a major health warning.

The Bali Sun reported the number of dengue fever cases rose by 65% in March 2024 in Bangli Regency — home to Mount Batur, Kintamani and Lake Batur.

Head of the Bangli Health Service I Nyoman Arsana told reporters: “Even though the number of dengue cases in Bangli district rose by 65%, compared to the position of March 2023, thankfully no dengue fever patients have died.”

According to Health Direct, dengue fever has symptoms like a bad case of the flu such as:

• a sudden fever
• headache — pain behind your eyes
• chills
• swollen glands
• muscle and joint pain
• fatigue (feeling very tired)
• abdominal (tummy) pain
• nausea and vomiting
• a faint red rash

Those with symptoms are advised to see a doctor immediately.

People experiencing severe dengue fever will experience additional symptoms:

• severe abdominal pain
• rapid breathing
• persistent vomiting
• vomit with blood in it
• bleeding gums
• unexpected bleeding
• restlessness

Alongside seeking medical advice, it’s also important to:

• rest
• drink plenty of fluids
• reduce the fever using paracetamol

However, do not take non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as aspirin and ibuprofen as these can increase your risk of bleeding.

The World Health Organisation recommends wearing clothes that cover the body as much as possible to protect the body from mosquito bites.

Mosquitoes that carry and spread dengue fever are most active during the day, and nets sprayed with insect repellent are advised.

WHO suggests using mosquito repellents containing DEET, Picaridin, or IR3535.

Most people who have dengue fever recover in about a week, although sometimes the infection is more serious, and occasionally it’s fatal.