Dengue warning from my doctor - actually risky for 2 weeks in Feb?
3 Answers from travellers
Real risk but not high for a 2-week Feb trip. Dengue exists in Sri Lanka year-round, higher during monsoon months (Oct-Jan and May-July for different regions). Feb is a lower-risk month. Practical prevention (works 95%+): DEET-based repellent (30%+, not 'natural' oils) - apply mornings and evenings, wear long sleeves at dawn/dusk when mosquitoes active, mosquito net in rural stays, avoid stagnant water areas. Actual dengue statistics for tourists in Sri Lanka: rare. Media hype > actual risk. But your doctor is right to mention it - it can be serious if you catch it.
^ this. Also: no vaccine currently practical for travelers (Dengvaxia has restrictions). Prevention is repellent + long clothing at dusk. Feb is fine. Don't cancel. Just don't skip the repellent.
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