Kiwi travellers have been hit with a warning over an infectious and potentially fatal disease that is spreading globally. Dengue fever, also known as ‘bone-break fever,’ has seen a sharp rise in cases, with over five million people now affected. The outbreak is not limited to specific regions, as cases have surged in Europe, Germany, Brazil, and Samoa.

In Europe, dengue fever cases have skyrocketed, with travellers unknowingly importing the virus into Germany. Brazil has faced its most severe outbreak in history, with 1.9 million reported infections since the beginning of the year. Samoa, too, has reported over 250 cases in just the past month.

Symptoms of dengue fever include sudden fever, chills, severe headaches, swollen glands, muscle and joint pain, fatigue, abdominal discomfort, nausea, and vomiting. Some patients may also develop a red rash on their upper body around the third day of infection.

Australian model Emily Gurr shared her harrowing experience with dengue fever after contracting it during a trip to Bali in 2015. Initially mistaking it for a bad hangover, Gurr’s condition quickly deteriorated, requiring hospitalization and an emergency evacuation to Darwin, which cost over NZ$57,000.

Gurr emphasized the severity of dengue fever, cautioning travellers, especially those visiting tropical regions, to be vigilant. Although there is no specific treatment for the disease, patients may need hospitalization, IV treatment, and in severe cases, a blood transfusion. Gurr advised individuals experiencing high fever, severe headaches, or nausea in tropical areas to seek medical assistance promptly.