In Europe, Finland has yet to experience an outbreak of dengue fever. However, there are many mild cases that go unnoticed. Researcher Henna Mäkelä from THL’s infectious disease control and vaccinations unit reports that there have been no reported cases of Finns contracting the disease in Europe. The majority of infections come from Asia, with Thailand being a common source.
Many travelers are not aware of the risk of dengue in certain areas where mosquitoes thrive in cities and can be active during the day. One Finnish traveler, Jussi Saalinki, contracted dengue twice during business trips to Saigon. He experienced severe symptoms including high fever, muscle aches, and weakness.
Laboratory-confirmed cases of dengue in Finland range from 25 to 90 annually, but many mild cases go unreported. Seeking medical attention is crucial in cases of dengue fever to prevent serious complications. In severe cases of the disease, complications can arise due to a decrease in blood platelets, leading to bleeding and potentially life-threatening conditions. Mortality from severe forms of the disease is less than one percent if treated but much higher if left untreated. It is important for travelers to be aware of the risk of dengue in certain regions and take precautions to avoid mosquito bites.
During beach vacations in tourist destinations in Asia, tiger mosquitoes spread the virus that causes dengue fever. The symptoms include fever, eye pain, nausea, headache, and loss of appetite.
It is essential for travelers to take precautions while traveling abroad by avoiding areas with high mosquito populations during the daytime and wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants when outside at night. Additionally, using insect repellents containing DEET or picaridin can also help prevent mosquito bites.
Overall, it is crucial for travelers to be aware of the risks associated with dengue fever when planning their trips abroad.
