Location: Marshall Islands, Ebeye
Event: Dengue fever epidemic
On August 7, 2019, the Government of the Republic of the Marshall Islands (GRMI) issued a State of Health Emergency due to a dengue fever outbreak on Ebeye island. Ebeye is conducting an island-wide clean-up of potential mosquito breeding areas. U.S. citizens should also note that the GRMI issued a travel advisory, effective immediately, that restricts travel from Ebeye to outer atolls and islands that are not equipped to manage severe dengue cases.
Actions to Take:
- Visit the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s website on dengue fever.
- Clean up homes, backyards, and public areas to remove mosquito breeding sites. Dengue-carrying mosquitos typically live indoors and are often found in dark, cool places, such as in closets, under beds, behind curtains, in bathrooms, and on porches. Use insecticides to get rid of mosquitos in those areas.
- Wear clothing that covers the arms and legs, especially during the early morning and late afternoon, when risk of being bitten is the highest.
- Use insect repellent authorized for human use, such as those containing DEET (N, N-Diethyl-3-methylbenzamide), IR3535 (3-[N-acetyl-Nbutyl]-ester ethyl acid aminopropionic) or Icaridin (acid-1 piperidinecarboxylic, 2-(2 – hydroxyethyl) – 1-methylpropylester), which can be applied to exposed skin or clothes and should be used in strict accordance with the instructions on the product label. There is no evidence to suggest restricting the use of these repellents in pregnant women, provided that the instructions on the product label are followed.
- For longer-term travelers and residents, empty and clean or cover any standing water that can be mosquito-breeding sites in the local residence (such as water storage tanks or flower pots).
- Consult the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for country health advisories or call CDC at 800-232-4636 or 404-639-3534.
- Visit the CDC Travelers Health Page.
- Monitor local and social media for updates.
- Enroll in Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) with the U. S. Embassy in Majuro to receive security updates – https://step.state.gov/
- Seek care early if you have an acute febrile illness. If you develop a fever or other symptoms that might be dengue,
– See a healthcare provider.
– Tell him or her about your travel.
– Rest as much as possible.
– Take acetaminophen to control fever and relieve pain.
– Do not take aspirin or ibuprofen.
– Drink plenty of fluids such as water or drinks with added electrolytes to stay hydrated.
Assistance:
- U.S. Embassy Majuro, Marshall Islands
Telephone: +692-247-4011
After-hours telephone: +692-455-8213
E-mail: MAJConsular@state.gov
Webpage: https://mh.usembassy.gov/ - State Department – Consular Affairs:
888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444
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