Planning a Bali vacation?Read this first

The Indonesian island of Bali, also known as the “Island of the Gods,” is a popular tourist destination with a perfect blend of culture, stunning scenery, and exciting nightlife. However, if you are planning to travel to Bali, it is important to note that due to the increasing number of dengue cases in Indonesia, the local government has issued a statement recommending that foreign tourists be vaccinated against the disease before visiting the island.

Although vaccination is not compulsory for tourists, Bali health authorities recommend it for your safety. Foreign visitors planning to travel to Bali should consult their healthcare provider about dengue vaccination and other preventive measures to ensure a safe and healthy trip.

Authorities recommend visitors use mosquito nets when sleeping during the day. For best results, mosquito nets should be sprayed with insect repellent. In addition, the use of screens and insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or IR3535 is highly recommended. Repellents such as coils and vaporizers are also effective and can be used as alternatives.

Gusti Ayu Raka Susanti, acting head of the Disease Prevention and Control Department of the Bali Health Bureau, said it is important for tourists to consider getting vaccinated against dengue fever to protect their health, especially when traveling to When traveling to areas where dengue fever is endemic. Although not mandatory, these vaccinations are highly recommended. In an interview quoted by local media, he said: “Tourists and all Balinese are strongly recommended to be vaccinated against dengue fever so that they can protect themselves from dengue infection”. Susanti said that many Australian tourists have been diagnosed with dengue fever in Bali.

Although authorities have not released the exact number of tourists infected with the disease, they have directed health officials to ensure hospital beds and medicines are available for dengue patients. This year, Bali has reported 4,177 dengue cases and five deaths. Between January and March 2023, there were 2,469 cases.

Local media reported that dengue cases increased by 65% ​​in Bali’s Bangli district in March 2024. Popular with tourists. Last month, 119 dengue cases were reported in Bangli, but no deaths were reported. Bangli Health Services Chief I Nyoman Arsana said although the number of dengue cases has increased significantly compared to March 2023, the lack of deaths is a relief.