[Dengue and chikungunya acquired during travel in the tropics]

Abstract

- The global incidence of dengue and chikungunya has greatly increased over recent decades, partly due to the increase of geographic distribution of both vectors.- These infections are endemic to the tropics and subtropics, however autochthonous transmission and outbreaks have been described in non-endemic areas.- Currently, there is a large chikungunya outbreak in the western hemisphere which started in the Caribbean. Chikungunya had not previously been endemic to this region.- Both arboviral infections are important causes of fever in Dutch travellers retuning from tropical destinations.- The clinical presentations of dengue and chikungunya overlap; both are characterised by high fever and arthralgia. Bleeding and plasma leakage are potentially life-threatening complications of dengue, while persistent arthralgia typifies chikungunya.- The prevention of mosquito bites, by using protective clothing and insect repellents, is the only way to prevent infection. No vaccine is yet available.