With dengue cases on the increase in Samoa, the American Samoa Department of Health has issued a special travel advisory for residents traveling to Samoa.
DOH advises packing an EPA registered insect repellant to use so as to keep away mosquitoes which spread dengue, stay in places with air conditioning and with window and door screens, and wear protective clothing to minimize skin exposure.
Upon return even if you do not feel sick, travelers returning from an area with risk of dengue should take steps to prevent mosquito bites for 3 weeks so they do not spread dengue to mosquitoes that could spread the virus to other people.
Symptoms of dengue usually begin within 2 weeks after being bitten by an infected mosquito.
See a healthcare provider if you develop a fever or have symptoms of dengue such as severe headaches, pain behind the eyes, joint and muscle pain, nausea and vomiting. It’s important to let the health worker know about your travel.
Take acetaminophen to reduce fever and manage body aches. Do not take aspirin or ibuprofen. If you have dengue, aspirin and ibuprofen thin the blood and may increase the risk of bleeding.
Rest and drink plenty of fluids.
If symptoms continue after 3 days or get worse, please seek medical care at the nearest health center or LBJ hospital.
