Health warning for Aussie tourists heading to Bali

Aussies planning to travel to Bali are being urged to remain alert against dengue fever after a spike in cases among tourists.

Australian health authorities have flagged an uptick in dengue infections detected in people returning from Bali in recent years.

A Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade spokesperson told 9news.com.au dengue fever was most common during the rainy season, which typically lasts from November to April.

“The best way to prevent dengue fever is to avoid being bitten by mosquitos,” the spokesperson said.

“The Government encourages all travellers to read the travel advice for Indonesia on Smartraveller before they travel, as well as advice on Infectious diseases and Dengue.”

The mosquito-borne virus occurs in Indonesia, Bali, Jakarta and other major cities.

Health officials in Bali said an increase in cases had been detected in Bangali Regency, according to local news agency Antara.

“Even though the number of dengue fever cases in Bangli district has increased by 65 percent compared to the position in March 2023, thankfully no dengue fever patients have died,” said Head of the Bangli Health Service, I Nyoman Arsana.

Symptoms can include a sudden fever, headache and chills, swollen glands, nausea and vomiting.

More severe infections can lead to excruciating abdominal pain, rapid breathing and unexpected bleeding.

Most infections usually resolve within week, however, serious cases can be fatal.

Indonesia ranks among the world’s 30 most highly endemic countries for dengue fever alongside India, Thailand and Sri Lanka.