CANCUN, Q.R. — As the summer rains begin to fall on Cancun’s beaches and jungles, state health officials are asking locals and tourists to be aware, but not hitting the panic button, about the seasonal risk of Dengue fever. The Cancun Sun has looked into the official data to explain what this means for both residents and visitors.
While any health notice deserves attention, it’s important to see the bigger picture. According to the latest report from Mexico’s Health Secretariat, there have been 68 confirmed cases of dengue in the state of Quintana Roo so far this year, with the majority of those concentrated in the municipality of Benito Juárez, where Cancun and its famous Hotel Zone are located. The state of Quintana Roo is home to world-famous destinations including Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum. For a state that welcomes millions of travelers annually, the number of cases remains very low, and the goal of current advisories is to keep it that way through smart prevention.
The renewed focus on dengue comes from two fronts. On May 22, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated its global “Level 1: Practice Usual Precautions” notice for dengue, which includes Mexico. This is the lowest level of alert and simply serves as a reminder for travelers to be mindful.
Locally, Quintana Roo’s Secretary of Health (SESA) has increased its on-the-ground prevention campaigns. You may see their teams working to eliminate mosquito breeding grounds, a project focused on removing any sources of standing water where the Aedes aegypti mosquito, which carries the virus, can lay its eggs.
Dengue is a viral illness that can cause a range of symptoms. Many cases are mild, but some can lead to a high fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, and significant joint and muscle pain. It’s an illness that can certainly ruin a vacation, which is why prevention is key.
So, how do you protect yourself without letting it get in the way of your trip? It’s about being smarter than the mosquitos.
Beyond the Basics: Smart Dengue Prevention
Know the Mosquito’s Schedule. The specific mosquito that carries dengue is a daytime biter. It is most active for a few hours after sunrise and during the late afternoon before sunset. If you’re planning jungle excursions or outdoor activities, be extra vigilant during these times.
Turn Your Room into a Safe Zone. Mosquitos are weak flyers and dislike cold air. Using the air conditioning in your hotel room or rental is a powerful deterrent. Keep doors and windows closed, especially if they don’t have screens. It’s also wise to do a quick scan of your room and balcony for any standing water, even in small places like the saucer under a plant pot.
Use Repellent Correctly. The best repellents contain ingredients like DEET, Picaridin, or Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus. If you’re using sunscreen, always apply it first, let it absorb for a few minutes, and then apply repellent on top.
Choose the Right Painkiller if You Feel Sick. If you get a fever and suspect you might have dengue, medical experts advise against using anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen (Advil) or aspirin. These can increase the risk of bleeding complications associated with the illness. Stick with acetaminophen (Tylenol) to manage fever and pain, and be sure to consult a local doctor for a proper diagnosis.
By taking these simple, proactive steps, you can help ensure your Cancun vacation is memorable for all the right reasons. Happy and healthy travels!
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