Wonder About Dengue Fever? Read This One

As a traveler who got infected and suffered from Dengue fever twice already, I got curious about the details of this horrible disease. Thought this fever, for the most part, is not deadly, while being ill, I wished it was.
There are not words to describe the pain associated with the Dengue fever during the illness period. The effect of it stays with you for weeks post the sever times. In addition, I had heard that if you get 3 times, the 3rd time is very serious and even fatal. I am sure if this is just myth or true. I rather not know.
So here is what I had found about these terrible, any backpacker nightmare, Dengue Fever.

The time between the bite of a mosquito carrying Dengue virus and the start of symptoms averages 4 to 6 days, with a range of 3 to 14 days. An infected person cannot spread the infection to other persons but can be a source of Dengue virus for mosquitoes for about 6 days.

 How is Dengue diagnosed?

Dengue is diagnosed by a blood test.  In many cases, it is very difficult to find a solid proof of dengue in the blood during blood work since the virus tends to hide.

 Who is at risk for Dengue?

Anyone who is bitten by an infected mosquito can get Dengue fever. Risk factors for Dengue hemorrhagic fever include a person's age and immune status, as well as the type of infecting virus. Persons who were previously infected with one or more types of Dengue virus are thought to be at greater risk for developing Dengue hemorrhagic fever if infected again.

 What is the treatment for Dengue and Dengue hemorrhagic fever?

There is no specific treatment for Dengue. Persons with Dengue fever should rest and drink plenty of fluids. They should be kept away from mosquitoes for the protection of others. Dengue hemorrhagic fever is treated by replacing lost fluids. Some patients need transfusions to control bleeding.

 How common is Dengue?

In tropical countries around the world, Dengue is one of the most common viral diseases spread to humans by mosquitoes. Tens of millions of cases of Dengue fever and up to hundreds of thousands of cases of Dengue hemorrhagic fever occur each year.

In the United States, approximately 100 cases of Dengue are reported each year in travelers returning from tropical areas. Many more cases probably go unreported. A few persons have become infected with Dengue while living in the United States. Aedes mosquitoes are found in Texas, Florida, and other southern states, and locally acquired dengue has been reported three times since 1980 in southern Texas.

 Is Dengue an emerging infectious disease?

Yes. All types of Dengue virus are re-emerging worldwide and causing larger and more frequent epidemics, especially in cities in the tropics. The emergence of Dengue as a major public health problem has been most dramatic in the western hemisphere. Dengue fever has reached epidemic levels in Central America and is threatening the United States.

Several factors are contributing to the resurgence of Dengue fever:

• No effective mosquito control efforts are underway in most countries with Dengue.
• Public health systems to detect and control epidemics are deteriorating around the world.
• Rapid growth of cities in tropical countries has led to overcrowding, urban decay, and substandard sanitation, allowing more mosquitoes to live closer to more people.
• The increase in non-biodegradable plastic packaging and discarded tires is creating new breeding sites for mosquitoes.
• Increased jet air travel is helping people infected with Dengue viruses to move easily from city to city.

Dengue hemorrhagic fever is also on the rise. Persons who have been infected with one or more forms of Dengue virus are at greater risk for the more severe disease. With the increase in all types of virus, the occurrence of Dengue hemorrhagic fever becomes more likely.

Image courtesy of David Castillo Dominici at FreeDigitalPhotos.net (ill Man)
Image courtesy of SweetCrisis at FreeDigitalPhotos.net (Mosquito In Nature)

 

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Trekking The Annapurna Circuit

The Annapurna region is an area in western Nepal where some of the most popular treks are located. The region is generally taken to include areas around the Annapurna Range (Annapurna Himal), the Dhaulagiri Range and the Kaligandaki River valley. Peaks in the Annapurnas include 8,091m Annapurna I, Nilgiri (7,061 m) and Machhapuchchhre (6,993 m). Dhaulagiri I (8,167 m) is just to the west of the Annapurnas, Most of these peaks are visible throughout the region on clear days.

Among the popular treks in the region are the Annapurna Circuit trek which circles the Annapurna Range, the Kaligandaki River Valley trek which brings you up the world's deepest valley and the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek up to the Annapurna Base Camp. There are many more trails for shorter treks. The region includes the Trans-Himalayan areas north of the main Himalayan Ranges, where the land is arid and the culture more Tibetan than Hindu.

Annapurna Circuit trekking has been recognized as one of the World's best trekking trails. This is a dramatic trek around the mighty Annapurna range, a journey that is regarded as one of the top ten walks in the world. Annapurna circuit trekking range offers a unique insight into the physical and cultural diversity of Nepal. This lodged-based trekking is certainly a 'classic' and is enjoyed by trekkers from all round the world.  Annapurna circuit trekking was opened for foreign trekkers in 1977. This trekking is renowned as one of the most spectacular and varied walks in the world with lush green valleys and fascinating villages that offers impressive snow-capped views of the white Himalayas. For your assurance some companies that offer 'all included' tours provide with medical kit bag for trekking as well as free emergency helicopter rescue service on time. All your trekking gears will carry by strong porter. We highly recommend you to just carry your small day bag with Camera & necessary items during trekking day. If you decide to use agencies to trek the The Annapurna Circuit Trek, itineraries are carefully designed to ensure you have adequate time to acclimatize comfortable thereby enjoying the trekking experience to the full.

Here is another great article about the authintic experience of trekking the Annapurna Circuit.


Image courtesy of TeddyBear[Picnic] at FreeDigitalPhotos.net

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Top 10 Destinations in Australia

1. Sydney - Is the main entry point in Australia for most people, and the city offers many interesting sites to visit such as the Opera House, Darling Harbor with marine aquarium, lots of Shopping malls, museums, and it worth a visit to the other side of the bay including the Zoo and the beach of Mainly. Visiting the downtown tower (Sydney Tower) will have a complete view of the city from the top. The Blue Mountains will provide a beautiful panorama of the valley. The nightlife in Sydney is one of the most active in all Australia.

2. Newcastle - Controversially nominated in Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel as #9 in the list of top 10 cities to visit in 2011, Newcastle is definitely worth a visit. While it lacks the glam and glitz of its bigger neighbor Sydney, there’s plenty of lo-fi charm in Newcastle. Make friends with locals and they’ll unlock the local secrets – favorite watering holes, local gigs, secret spots on the beach, cool coffee shops etc. Or head to one of the many beaches for a swim, tan or surf (minus Sydney crowds). Stockton Beach, with its fine sand, stretches as far as the eye can see. Or jump into the convict-carved Bogey Hole ocean baths.

3. Gold Coast - pretty beaches special for surfers and beach lovers. Other attractions are the Theme Parks and the busy night life in Surfers Paradise. The surrounding mountains and National Parks should not be missed with many waterfalls, flora and fauna to be appreciated.

4. Kakadu National Park - travel to the Northern Territory to experience Australia’s magnificent, remote and natural environment first hand. The World Heritage listed Kakadu National Park is almost 20,000 square kilometers in size and features spectacular cultural and ecological beauty. Enjoy time with your family as you wander the great outdoors together and appreciate your isolated and untouched surroundings. This peaceful destination is full of wildlife, spectacular views and great walking tracks. The destination is great for families who are looking to get out and connect with nature.

5. Outback road trip - head out West, hire a 4WD and drive north along the unpaved Gibb River Road. This 660km drive in Western Australia takes you from Derby to Kununurra and it’s one of the great outback highways. The terrain is at times inhospitable and impassable during the rainy season but expect highways with endless vistas of red dirty, blue open skies and rugged terrain. Make pit stops along the way – there are stunning gorges, picturesque riverbeds, pounding waterfalls – perfect to cool off in. It is advised to book accommodation in advance, especially during the peak months of June to August. The drive isn’t to be taken lightly but with advance planning, you’ll have a ball of a time. Did someone say, ‘Road TRIP!?’

6. The Whitsundays - The Whitsundays has everything you need for your family vacation. Great weather, stunning beaches, clear blue water and the most relaxing locations for newlyweds to unwind. The Whitsundays are made up of 74 islands in total and boasts year-round sunshine. During summer the temperature reaches a balmy 27-30 degrees and in winter the weather is just as pleasant, averaging 23-26 degrees. A Whitsundays honeymoon is all about resting, 5 star resorts and beautiful beaches and coral reefs. A great way to enjoy the island is by cruising or sailing the turquoise blue sea. After you’ve found your sea legs and snorkeled some of the most beautiful reefs the Great Barrier Reef have to offer, finish your holiday by booking into a resort, such as the adults-only accommodation at Hayman Islands or Brampton Island, which is a favorite amongst honeymooners.

7. Daylesford - the serene setting of Daylesford is enough to send any newlywed into immediate relaxation mode. Daylesford is full of restaurants, galleries, spa facilities and beautiful countryside. Known as one of Australia’s premier spa destinations, it’s perfect for honeymooners. Spoil yourself with a day at one of the many luxurious spas and finish your evening with local wines and produce on your own terrace. The beautiful gardens and architecture around the area have a European feel which will make you feel a million miles away from home.

8. Perth - Perth presents one of Australia’s most picture-perfect postcard settings. Flanked by 80 kilometers of white sand beaches, the sparkling Swan River and lush green parklands, the Western Australia capital is an outstanding holiday destination. Voted as one of the world’s most livable cities, Perth experiences 3000 hours of sunshine a year and enjoys a relaxed lifestyle centered on the outdoors. From the Indian Ocean to the hinterland of the Swan Valley and into the Pinnacles Desert, Perth is a great base from which to explore Australia’s virtually un-spoilt west coast. 

9. Tasmania Zoo - Tasmania Zoo is the state's only fully-accredited zoo, near Launceston in Tasmania’s north.  Set amongst extensive natural bush-land, the zoo has Tasmania’s biggest collection of animals including the world’s largest private devil breeding program. You will come face to face with the world-famous Tasmanian Devils who assist research into the devil facial tumor disease. Witness these fascinating creatures live, at the devil feedings and interpretation times. Watch wild animals feeding in their natural habitat at daily sessions. Feeding times are 10.30am, 1.00pm and 3.30pm. You can pet a baby devil and get your photo taken. You will also see over 80 species of birds, from fairy penguins, swift parrots and macaws to wedged tailed eagles.

10. Snowy Wilderness - Snowy Wilderness is a true Australian outback adventure. Bordering the Kosciuszko National Park and Snowy River, Snowy Wilderness is a sanctuary for wild brumby and offers 7,500 spectacular acres bursting with experiences for you to discover.  Run free with the brumbies, ride horseback through the rugged mountain terrain, explore the wilderness by four wheel drive, camp under the stars or sit back and relax in luxury accommodation - the resort offers something for everyone.  Dawn and dusk are spectacular and this is when nature comes into its own - you're welcome to stay the night. Curl up in the lap of luxury in one of the new high country lodges or indulge yourself at the luxuriously appointed homestead.  

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Stay Healthy As You Travel - Basic Tips

Traveling to different climates and environments abroad can expose you to disease and health risks. You should be aware of the dangers and how to stay healthy.
Diseases which aren’t present in the your home town such as yellow fever, malaria, rabies and dengue fever are common in some areas of the world.

Vaccinations and immunizations

Visit your Health Department local clinic as soon as possible to check if you need any vaccinations or other preventive measures (such as malaria tablets).
Remember, these treatments aren’t usually available as prescriptions though can be bought without one in certain countries.  Be aware from counterfeit medicine.

General travel health tips

• take out comprehensive travel insurance or you could face a huge medical bill if you fall ill and need treatment. The coverage should be based on your travel style.
• if you are from Europe, you might want to consider a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) to entitle you to free or discounted healthcare in European countries
• check the health section of our country travel advice before you travel
• take enough medication for your whole trip and any unexpected delays. Keep in mind that medicine has expiration date so don't take too much. You can always buy more wherever you are.
  
• drink plenty of water in hot climates to avoid dehydration
• be safe in the sun - use a high-factor sunscreen and avoid excessive sunbathing between 10am - 4pm
• find out the local emergency services numbers and the number of the local hospital
• practice safe sex - take condoms with you as quality varies in different countries. HIV and Aids, and other sexually transmitted diseases can be caught worldwide.

Long-distance journeys

• don’t wear tight clothing on long-distance journeys
• do regular stretching exercises such as flexing and extending your ankles to avoid circulation problems
• walk round at regular intervals on long flights
• drink plenty of water on flights and avoid drinking too much alcohol.

Consult your doctor before long-distance travel if you:

• are pregnant or have given birth in the last 6 months
• have a history of blood disorders, deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism
• are taking hormonal medication (including the contraceptive pill)
• have cancer, heart problems or have recently had surgery.

If you have a pre-existing medical condition

• tell your travel insurer about your condition
• ask your doctor how the trip might affect you
• check local conditions such as climate and pollution levels and consider how you might be affected
• carry a doctor’s letter and a copy of any prescriptions
• make sure you take enough medical supplies for the duration of your stay and any unexpected delays. Medical supplies may be subject to supply constraints in some countries and in remote areas
• ensure your medication is legal in the country you are visiting – contact the embassy of the country to which you are travelling and see the NaTHNaC and NHS Choices websites for further information
• learn key words and phrases in the local language for your condition, medication and emergency help
• take the same precautions you normally would in your country if you weren’t going to be at home for a while
• if you suffer from a mental illness you should be aware that facilities and local attitudes to mental health problems may differ from those at home. Do some research before you go.

Good luck!


Article by http://www.fco.gov.uk
Image courtesy of Ambro at FreeDigitalPhotos.net

 

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