Increase in dengue fever in travellers returning from Egypt, Germany 2023

Abstract

Dengue virus (DENV) infections after exposure in Egypt increased in Germany in 2023, with 36 cases vs zero to eight in 2017 to 2022. Over 90% of the patients had stayed on the Red Sea Coast (mostly Hurghada), almost 50% in private residences. Case numbers increased more strongly than traveller numbers. Mosquito control is more difficult in towns than hotel grounds, increasing the risk of infection at private residences. Physicians should consider dengue for unexplained fever after return from Egypt.