Dengue Fever in Palau

[RikRaeder]

Palau Visitors Authority - About Palau

Wow. How's the erradication process going? I've got tickets and am counting down...well, at least the incubation period is as long as my stay (worst case: I'll get sick and die AFTER my trip )

 

[Diver Lori]

They had warnings in the Papeete airport in Tahiti in August too. Just take precautions, and wear your DEET.

So far, I'm unscathed.

 

[Mike Veitch]

I had Dengue last year in Bali..

lost 10kg nice!

 

[RikRaeder]

Wow, I can only hope. Maybe I can contract it before so I look good in my wetsuit!

 

[Tomeck]

I was in Palau, I never heard about dengue.

 

[farsidefan1]

Or fit in the wetsuit :0

 

[Kevrumbo]

Contracted it in Walindi, Papua New Guinea 2000 --made it to Palau (Koror) where I was treated by a US Navy Corpsman (there was a general outbreak in that entire Pacific area). Terrible and very debilitating, the joint pain fever & chills: like having Influenza times-ten-to-the-tenth power. Spent the entire week in Koror Hospital, on IV fluids and acetaminophen for the pain/fever; you can only treat the symptoms, letting the virus run it's course, and hope you don't develop further serious complications like Dengue Shock Syndrome or Hemorrhagic Fever.

 

[HBO MD]

Hope you've recovered Kevrumbo!

The most important thing about vector borne diseases is to take precautions.Know if there is any seasonality, particular areas etc. In Palau, Dengue isn't rampant, but once reported the CDC takes note and hence an advisory. It's worth considering that your vaccinations are up to date for travel anywhere overseas ,( Hep A, tetanus, Cholera/typhoid etc, if appropriate),and therefore it is helpful to see if there is a travel clinic near you. Check with any teaching hospital nearby (Infectious Diseases Dept), or via the CDC recommendations.

The bottom line is to use a minimum of 30% DEET.

Many repellants don't contain this amount so be careful. In addition, know when the dangerous times are for mosquitos, ( around dusk) and be wary should you venture into swampy areas.

You'll be fine. Safe diving and enjoy your trip!