The number of Dengue fever cases in southern Taiwan have been soaring recently to a new record high.

In response, the authorities have been stepping up their efforts for disease control, and started to offer special "health-packs" to travellers returning from Southeast Asia where the epidemic runs rampant.

The dengue fever alarm is in full effect as last week 49 new domestic cases were reported a new weekly high this year as most cases were concentrated in Kaohsiung and Tainan counties.

So far this year, the number of local dengue fever cases have risen to 131 with 202 imported cases, which is a record high when compared to the same period years ago.

In particular, China has seen the emergence of a 4th type of dengue fever virus.

The CDC is worried that if different types could lead to cross-infection with the mainland already seeing many deaths.

To strengthen disease surveillance, the CDC on Wednesday, September 15th at Taoyuan and Kaohsiung International Airport will begin providing self health packages for Taiwanese travelers returning from Southeast Asia.

This includes a mask and information about disease prevention.

In addition to careful warnings over dengue fever, eastern Taiwan has seen an outbreak of conjunctivitis.

Also, a company trip to Cambodia last week saw 58 people return with intestinal problems with 4 people identified as having dysentery as the CDC urged people going abroad not to eat raw food.