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Surge in Dengue Fever Cases Hits Bali’s Top Tourist Destinations

Dengue Fever Cases Surge in Bali’s Top Tourist Destinations
As of January 2025, over 100,000 cases and 10 deaths have already been reported across 24 countries due to dengue. Over 14 million cases were reported worldwide in 2024, and more than 10,000 deaths were attributed to dengue globally. (Representative Image: Unsplash)
As of January 2025, over 100,000 cases and 10 deaths have already been reported across 24 countries due to dengue. Over 14 million cases were reported worldwide in 2024, and more than 10,000 deaths were attributed to dengue globally. (Representative Image: Unsplash)
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Bali’s Top Tourist Destinations

Bali's Badung Regency, home to major tourist destinations such as Uluwatu, Canggu, and Seminyak, is experiencing a sharp increase in dengue fever cases. The popular region has seen an alarming rise in infections, prompting health officials to urge tourists to take precautions seriously.
In 2024, reported cases of dengue fever in Badung Regency doubled compared to 2023, making it the second most affected area in Bali. Gianyar Regency, which includes the popular tourist hub of Ubud, recorded the most cases, with 4,478 confirmed infections. Buleleng Regency in northern Bali then reported 1,947 cases.
Budung Regency recorded 2,405 cases in 2024, up from 1,137 last year. However, these figures are only for cases reported at hospitals, clinics, and health facilities—suggesting that many mild cases go unreported.

Facts & Figures

  • Badung Regency recorded 2,405 dengue cases in 2024, a 100% increase from 1,137 cases in 2023.

  • Gianyar Regency (which includes Ubud) reported the highest number of cases with 4,478 confirmed infections.

  • Buleleng Regency (North Bali) had 1,947 cases, ranking third.

Many mild cases likely went unreported as figures only include cases documented by hospitals, clinics, and healthcare providers.

Official Response & Prevention Efforts
Badung regent and soon-to-be Bali deputy governor  Nyoman Prasta acknowledged the alarming rise in cases, stressing that local authorities had "done their utmost" to contain the outbreak. In a controversial comment, he suggested that tourists may have been bitten by mosquitoes outside of Badung, not necessarily within the region. However, he assured that health protocols will remain in place to deal with the crisis.

75% of dengue infections are asymptomatic or cause mild flu-like symptoms. 25% of cases develop moderate to severe symptoms requiring medical attention. Infection with one dengue serotype (DENV-1 to DENV-4) provides lifelong immunity to that strain but increases the risk of severe disease upon subsequent infection with a different serotype. (Representative image: Pexels)
75% of dengue infections are asymptomatic or cause mild flu-like symptoms. 25% of cases develop moderate to severe symptoms requiring medical attention. Infection with one dengue serotype (DENV-1 to DENV-4) provides lifelong immunity to that strain but increases the risk of severe disease upon subsequent infection with a different serotype. (Representative image: Pexels)

WHY FEAR DENGUE?

Dengue fever, a mosquito-borne viral infection, is spreading globally, affecting millions yearly, with climate change expanding its reach. While most cases are mild, severe dengue can cause life-threatening complications, especially in vulnerable populations. Prevention focuses on avoiding mosquito bites, maintaining hygiene, and utilizing the newly developed vaccine for travelers. Early diagnosis, hydration, and symptomatic relief remain crucial for managing the disease. Some important facts are; Dengue is prevalent in over 100 countries, especially in tropical areas. Transmitted primarily by Aedes mosquitoes, notably Aedes aegypti. Symptoms include high fever, severe headache, and skin rash in about 25% of cases. Severe dengue can lead to serious complications, particularly in vulnerable populations. Diagnosis requires laboratory tests to confirm the presence of the virus. Most cases are self-limiting; hydration and pain relief are key treatments. Prevention includes using mosquito repellents and a newly licensed vaccine for travelers.

Head of Badung Health Service, Dr. Made Padma Puspita stressed the seriousness of the situation, highlighting that the recent heavy rains and widespread flooding have contributed to the increase in mosquito population.

In handling DHF, the most important thing is community participation. We can prevent cases in our environment by eradicating mosquito nests (PSN). This step is usually called 3M Plus, namely draining water reservoirs, closing water reservoirs, and recycling various items that have the potential to be used as breeding grounds for Aedes aegypti mosquitoes that carry the dengue virus in humans.

Dr. Made Padma Puspita, Head of the Badung Health Service

Individuals previously infected with one dengue strain have a 4–6 times higher risk of developing severe dengue if infected again. Up to 70% of hospitalized dengue patients require IV fluids for dehydration. Dengvaxia (approved in select countries) reduces the risk of severe dengue by 80% in previously infected individuals. (Representative image: Pexels)
Individuals previously infected with one dengue strain have a 4–6 times higher risk of developing severe dengue if infected again. Up to 70% of hospitalized dengue patients require IV fluids for dehydration. Dengvaxia (approved in select countries) reduces the risk of severe dengue by 80% in previously infected individuals. (Representative image: Pexels)

Tourist Advisory: How to Stay Safe

To combat the spread of dengue, health officials are stepping up prevention efforts, including public awareness campaigns to eliminate mosquito breeding sites and fogging in high-risk areas.

Key mitigation strategies include the "3M Plus" approach:

  • Extraction of water bodies

  • Sealing water containers

  • Recycling items that can serve as breeding grounds for mosquitoes.


Tourists visiting Bali are strongly advised to take precautions, such as using mosquito repellent, wearing protective clothing, and ensuring accommodation has mosquito nets or screens. Comprehensive travel insurance covering tropical diseases such as dengue fever is also recommended.

WHO Guidelines for Dengue Fever Treatment
The World Health Organization (WHO) advises people with dengue fever to:

  • Rest and stay hydrated

  • Use acetaminophen (paracetamol) for pain relief.

  • Avoid non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen and aspirin.

  • Monitor for severe symptoms and seek medical help if necessary.

By taking precautions and staying informed, travelers can reduce their risk of contracting dengue fever while enjoying their time in Bali.

Reference:

1. The Bali Sun. “Bali’s Busiest Tourist Resorts See Sharp Spike In Dengue Fever Cases.” The Bali Sun, February 4, 2025. Accessed February 4, 2025. https://thebalisun.com/balis-busiest-tourist-resorts-see-sharp-spike-in-dengue-fever-cases/.

(Input from various sources)

(Rehash/Muhammad Faisal/MSM)

As of January 2025, over 100,000 cases and 10 deaths have already been reported across 24 countries due to dengue. Over 14 million cases were reported worldwide in 2024, and more than 10,000 deaths were attributed to dengue globally. (Representative Image: Unsplash)
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