DHAKA: Scientists have developed an "early warning system" to alert authorities to the risk of dengue fever outbreaks in Brazil during the World Cup.

The analysis, published in The Lancet Infectious Diseases, estimates the chances of an outbreaks of the mosquito-borne infection disease.

They say the risk is high enough to warrant a high-alert warning in three venues - Natal, Fortaleza and Recife.

If they come top of their group, England will play in Recife on 29 June.

About a million fans are expected to travel to the 12 different cities hosting matches during the World Cup, which runs from 12 June to 13 July.

Brazil recorded more cases of dengue fever than anywhere else in the world between 2000 and 2013, with more than seven million cases reported.

Dengue is a viral infection that is transmitted between humans by mosquitoes.

It can cause life-threatening illness and there are currently no licensed vaccines or treatments.

Screens, air-conditioning and using insecticides can all reduce the risk of being bitten.

Source: BBC

BDST: 1825 HRS, MAY 17, 2014