Increase in Cases Reported Across the Region
The Caribbean region has seen a rise in mosquito and insect spread infections, posing a significant health risk to travelers. This increase includes cases of dengue, Oropouche virus disease, and Zika virus infection.
Dengue
Dengue is caused by a virus from the Flaviviridae family and is spread by the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito, which mainly feeds during the day. There are four types of dengue virus: DEN 1, DEN 2, DEN 3, and DEN 4. All can cause dengue or severe dengue (previously known as dengue hemorrhagic fever).
Most people infected with dengue remain well. If symptoms occur, they usually start abruptly with a high fever, flu-like illness, nausea, vomiting, and a rash. Most infections are self-limiting, with recovery occurring three to four days after the rash appears. However, a small number of people develop severe illness, which can include dangerously low blood pressure (shock), fluid build-up in the lungs, and severe bleeding. Severe dengue can be fatal if left untreated.
Oropouche Virus Disease
Oropouche virus disease is spread mainly by the bite of an infected midge, although some mosquitoes can also transmit the infection. These insects mainly bite around dawn and dusk. The disease is usually mild, with symptoms including fever, flu-like illness, nausea, vomiting, rash, light sensitivity, and pain behind the eyes. Symptoms typically last up to seven days, but in up to 60% of cases, they can reoccur a few days or weeks later. Severe illness, including meningitis, can develop in some people.
In 2023-2024, Oropouche virus began spreading in the Americas, including the Caribbean, reaching areas where it had not been previously reported. It has been associated with several deaths and infection during pregnancy has been linked to fetal deaths and possible birth defects. Recently, Oropouche virus was found in the semen of a traveler who had returned from an affected area. While no cases of sexual transmission have been reported, these findings are under investigation.
Zika Virus Infection
Zika virus infection, mainly spread by day-biting mosquitoes, is also a risk in the Caribbean. Most infected people remain well, but if symptoms occur, they are usually mild and short-lived. Serious complications are uncommon. However, Zika virus infection during pregnancy can cause birth defects, known as Congenital Zika Syndrome, which includes microcephaly, delayed brain development, seizures, hearing loss, vision problems, and feeding difficulties.
Advice for Travelers
Before You Travel
- Check our Country Information pages for health risks and vaccine recommendations for your destination. Specific information about dengue and Zika risk can be found in the 'Other Risks' section.
- Further information about dengue, Oropouche virus disease, and Zika cases may be available in the Outbreak Surveillance section.
- Check Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) travel advice for safety and security information about your destination.
- Ensure all your recommended travel vaccines for the Caribbean and routine UK vaccines are up to date by consulting your GP, practice nurse, pharmacist, or travel clinic.
Pregnancy and Pre-Conception
- If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, carefully consider your travel plans. Discuss the suitability of travel and potential risks associated with Zika or Oropouche virus disease with your healthcare provider.
- Be aware of current advice about avoiding sexual transmission of these infections.
More information is available from:
- United Kingdom (UK) Teratology Information Service: Exposure to Oropouche virus in pregnancy
- UK Health Security Agency: Zika Travel advice
- UK Health Security Agency: Zika virus: preventing infection by sexual transmission
While You Are Away
- Take particular care with bite avoidance during the day, especially around dawn and dusk, as many insect and mosquito infections are spread by day-biting mosquitoes.
- Reduce your risk of insect spread illnesses by wearing long sleeves/trousers, applying insect repellent regularly, and following insect and tick bite avoidance advice.
- Apply insect repellent after sunscreen and reapply regularly after activities, including swimming.
- Use 50% DEET-based insect repellents, which are effective and safe for use in pregnancy, breastfeeding, and for children from two months of age. If DEET is unsuitable, use alternatives containing Icaridin (Picaridin) or Eucalyptus citriodora oil.
Stay informed and take precautions to protect yourself from mosquito and insect spread infections while traveling in the Caribbean. Safe travels!