How can dengue fever be prevented?
There is no vaccine for preventing dengue. To prevent dengue, take precautions to avoid exposure to mosquitoes: Schedule travel to tropical areas during the seasons when mosquitoes are less active. Stay in places that are clean, insect free, and have air conditioning or well-screened windows. When you are in a mosquito-infested area, avoid wearing perfume or other scented products. Stay indoors at dawn, dusk, and in the early evening, when mosquitoes are most likely to be around. Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants when outdoors. Use an insect repellent containing 20 to 30% DEET on skin that is not covered by clothing. Mosquitoes lay eggs in water. To reduce mosquito breeding, drain standing water from flowerpots, buckets, barrels, cans, and other items that collect water. Avoid swimming in small ponds or lagoons, which are mosquito-breeding areas. The risk of dengue infection for international travelers appears to be small, unless there is an epidemic in the area you are visiting.
