Indonesia's Bali, also known as the "Island of the Gods", is a popular tourist destination that offers a perfect blend of culture, stunning landscapes, and exciting nightlife. However, if you're planning to visit Bali, it's important to be aware that due to the increasing number of dengue fever cases in Indonesia, the regional government has released a statement advising foreign tourists to get vaccinated against the disease before visiting the island.
While vaccinations against the disease are not mandatory for tourists, Bali's health agency recommends it for your safety. Foreign tourists planning to visit Bali should consult with healthcare providers about dengue fever vaccinations and other preventive measures to ensure a safe and healthy trip.
Authorities have recommended that tourists use mosquito nets while sleeping during the day. For best results, the nets should be sprayed with insect repellent. Additionally, window screens and mosquito repellents containing DEET, Picaridin, or IR3535 are highly recommended. Repellants like coils and vaporizers are also effective and can be used as an alternative.
According to the acting head of Disease Prevention and Control at the Bali Health Agency, Gusti Ayu Raka Susanti, it is crucial for tourists to consider getting dengue fever vaccinations to safeguard their health, particularly when traveling to areas where the disease is prevalent. Although not mandatory, these vaccinations are highly recommended. In an interview quoted in local media, he said, "The dengue fever vaccinations are highly suggested, not only for tourists but also all Balinese people, so that they can protect themselves from dengue infections". Susanti stated that several Australian tourists have been diagnosed with dengue fever in Bali.
Though authorities have not released the exact number of tourists infected with the disease, they have instructed health officials to ensure that hospital beds and medicines for dengue patients are available. This year, there have been 4,177 cases of dengue fever reported in Bali, including five deaths. Between January and March 2023, there were 2,469 cases.
Local media reports have indicated that the number of dengue fever cases in Bali's Bangli Regency increased by 65 per cent in March 2024. Bangli Regency is popular among tourists for its attractions such as Kintamani, Lake Batur, Mount Batur, and agrotourism coffee plantations. Last month, 119 cases of dengue fever were reported in Bangli, however, no fatalities were reported. I Nyoman Arsana, Head of the Bangli Health Service, stated that while there has been a significant rise in the number of dengue cases compared to March 2023, the absence of fatalities is a relief.