DVG Warns Travelers and Visitors from Suriname About the Risk of Chikungunya

Because Aruba has direct flights to and from Suriname, DVG advises all individuals who:

• plan to travel to Suriname;
• have recently returned from Suriname; or
• are receiving visitors from Suriname

to be extra alert for chikungunya.

Chikungunya is a viral disease transmitted by the same mosquito that spreads dengue (the Aedes aegypti mosquito).

The most common symptoms include:

• sudden onset of fever;
• severe joint pain, especially in the wrists, ankles, knees, and elbows;
• headache;
• muscle pain;
• fatigue;
• skin rash (sometimes).

Symptoms usually appear between 2 and 12 days after being bitten by a mosquito infected with the virus.

DVG asks all travelers and residents to take the following precautionary measures:

Be alert for symptoms
If you travel to Suriname or develop the above-mentioned symptoms after returning from Suriname, consult a physician.

Always report your travel history
When visiting a doctor or healthcare provider, clearly state whether you have recently (within the past 14 days) traveled to Suriname or have received visitors from Suriname. This information is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Prevent mosquito bites
Individuals with symptoms should take extra precautions to prevent mosquito bites and reduce local transmission of the virus. This includes using mosquito repellent, wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants, staying indoors, and avoiding public places while symptomatic.

Protect yourself and your family:

• Everyone is encouraged to eliminate unnecessary standing water around the home, workplace, and surrounding areas.
• Check scooters parked under trees, tires, and any other large or small objects that may collect water in order to reduce mosquito breeding. Fewer mosquitoes mean a lower risk of virus transmission on our island.

DVG will continue to keep the community informed on matters related to public health, because good health is our priority.

Stay informed:

• Like the Facebook page Directie Volksgezondheid DVG Aruba
• Follow on Instagram: directie_volksgezondheid_aruba
• Visit: www.dvg.aw
• Call: +297 522 4200
• Email: servicio@dvg.aw.