A significant outbreak of dengue fever has struck the popular tourist destination of Bali, Indonesia, leaving many holidaymakers, particularly from Russia, grappling with severe illness. Thousands of cases have emerged since the start of 2025 amid the rainy season, increasing the urgency for effective health measures.
Reports indicate over six thousand individuals have contracted dengue fever this year alone, with 28 fatalities attributed to the virus. Areas such as Canggu, Uluwatu, and Seminyak, well-known among tourists, have seen the highest concentration of infections, as mosquitoes—particularly the Aedes species—breed prolifically during this wet season.
The disease, transmitted through the bite of infected mosquitoes, is marked by debilitating symptoms including extreme joint and muscle pain, which has led to the unfortunate nickname “breakbone fever.” Affected tourists describe their experiences with alarming clarity. One Russian woman recounted, "В больнице меня держали на круглосуточной капельнице, давали парацетамол и противорвотные. Потом началась тромбоцитопения, стали лопаться капилляры. У меня шла кровь из носа. Но на четвёртый день стало лучше и меня выписали," (I was kept on round-the-clock IV drips, pampering me with paracetamol and antiemetics. Then thrombocytopenia started, my capillaries began to rupture. I was bleeding from my nose. But by the fourth day, I started feeling well enough to be discharged).
This sentiment has been echoed by many who have fallen ill. Reports highlight cases where symptoms have escalated to include severe pain and hallucinations, with some individuals experiencing yellowing of the skin—a potential indicator of liver issues. One tourist lamented, "...у некоторых опухают и отнимаются ноги, появляются галлюцинации, желтеет кожа..." (Some experience swollen and immobilized legs, hallucinations, and yellowing of the skin...).
Health officials are scrambling to address this health crisis. Measures such as enhanced spraying of insecticides and increased public health advisories are underway, yet the effectiveness remains challenged by the prevailing conditions. The rainy season not only encourages mosquito breeding but also complicates control efforts, making tourists increasingly vulnerable.
The prevalence of dengue fever is particularly troubling as it can manifest through its four distinct virus strains, which raises concerns about repeat infections among those previously affected. With no vaccine currently available for the virus, precautions focus heavily on mosquito bite prevention—such as using insect repellent and wearing protective clothing.
Given the alarming reports, authorities urge travelers to exercise caution when visiting tropical destinations like Bali. It is imperative for potential travelers to stay informed about health advisories and take proactive measures against mosquito exposure.
Many Russian tourists checking on their families back home have reported the dire health conditions. The Indonesian authorities’ rapid response is welcomed, but the increasing number of infections suggests the outbreak’s grip on public health is still tightening. The dual challenge of managing healthcare for the ill and protecting the general populace continues as the wet season persists.
The situation on Bali is not only concerning for those currently enjoying vacation but for health officials who must balance tourist enjoyment and safety. Despite efforts to combat the spread of dengue fever, the disease remains a serious threat as long as conditions allow for mosquito populations to thrive.
With the start of this year highlighting the vulnerabilities of tropical destinations to rapidly spreading infectious diseases, both tourists and local residents are reminded to remain vigilant. Bali’s picturesque beaches should not be clouded by fears of illness, yet the reality of dengue fever is too severe to ignore.
Travelers are encouraged to stay informed by checking health bulletins and following local guidelines to minimize their risks. The impact of this outbreak will serve as both cautionary and educational, reminding everyone of the importance of health awareness, even when on vacation.