Author; Robert H. Page, MD and Curtis P. Page, MD are authors of the MEXICO: Health and Safety Travel Guide and the Healthy Traveler Regional Series. For more information visit medtogo.com
Dengue fever is most often transmitted to humans by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, which has been responsible for recent outbreaks in Texas and the northeastern Mexican state of Tamaulipas. The disease has also been active in the low-lying coastal regions of Veracruz and along the Yucatan Peninsula. There is no vaccination for Dengue Fever. Prevent exposure with mosquito repellents (containing DEET) and protective netting during the day. (This mosquito prefers to hunt during daylight.)
Symptoms: Early symptoms include sore throat, nausea, headache, muscle and joint pains, vomiting, chills, and the sudden onset of fever as high as 104° F. The fever lasts for two to four days and then the patient may suddenly break into a drenching cold sweat. Symptoms may subside for a day or two before the second stage of symptoms begins, which is characterized by lower fevers and a scattered, light red rash on the trunk, arms, and legs. The hands and bottoms of the feet may be swollen with a darker red rash.
Treatment: Treatment consists of supportive measures, which means the use of analgesics such as acetaminophen, fever-reducing medications such as aspirin or ibuprofen, and adequate hydration sometimes with intravenous fluids.
This Yucatán regional guide is the first in a series of MedToGo: Healthy Traveler's Handbooks. The book offers a more in-depth directory of physicians and health care facilities in 10* of the region's most popular destinations. Also included are an overview of diving medicine, open water and cenote diving safety, a short list of the region's best diving schools, recommended healthy restaurants, spas and recreational activities.
This guide is for the traveler who aims to travel healthy and active while in the Yucatán Peninsula. Our recreational activities reviews include dive centers and dive sites, yoga schools, gyms, hiking, biking, and kayak trips, among others. Our spa and temazcal (Mayan vapor bath) reviews include contact information and lists of signature treatments. Hospital and hyperbaric chamber listings include services and specialties available, English-speaking administrative and medical liaisons, a rating of care, and a detailed description of each facility and its strengths and weaknesses. Physician listings include contact information, hours, charges, specialties, and a description of experience and certification. Included are city maps and emergency information, a pharmaceutical guide, translations of common medical terms and phrases, pre-travel advice, a comprehensive symptoms and conditions guide, and recommendations on traveler's insurance and immunizations.
*Akumal, Cancún, Cozumel, Isla Mujeres, Mérida, Playa del Carmen, Progreso, Puerto Aventuras, Puerto Morelos, Tulum
