• A significant number of dengue fever and malaria cases have been reported on Nias Island, North Sumatra Province.
• If you plan to visit the island, take adequate precautions, such as using insect repellent. If you suspect an infection, seek medical attention immediately.
1. According to local reports, the disaster management authorities in South Nias Regency, North Sumatra Province, have confirmed 562 cases of dengue fever and malaria on Nias Island between January and July of this year, with 8 fatalities. They have declared a state of emergency.
2. Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne disease that typically begins with a sudden high fever. Symptoms may appear 3 to 7 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito and can include rash, headache, joint pain, nausea, and vomiting. In rare cases, it can progress to severe forms such as dengue hemorrhagic fever or dengue shock syndrome, which can be fatal.
Malaria, also transmitted by mosquito bites, has an incubation period of about 1 to 4 weeks before symptoms such as fever, chills, headache, vomiting, joint pain, and muscle aches develop. There are five types of malaria that can infect humans, some of which can become severe and life-threatening if not treated within 24 hours.
3. When visiting the island, avoid exposing your skin as much as possible, and use insect repellent to protect yourself. If you suspect you have been infected, seek medical care promptly.
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