OPS insta a fortalecer medidas preventivas contra el dengue en Centroamérica, México y el Caribe – OPS/OMS

Washington, DC, May 24, 2024 (PAHO) – Given the increase in dengue cases in the southern hemisphere and the beginning of the season of greatest transmission of this disease in the northern hemisphere, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) Urges the countries of Central America, Mexico and the Caribbean to strengthen preventive measures.

In an epidemiological alert issued today, PAHO emphasizes the importance of reinforcing surveillance, diagnosis and vector control actions, as well as preparing health services for the proper management of patients. This with the aim of preventing complications and avoiding possible saturation of health services.

Dengue is a viral disease transmitted by mosquitoes that, in most cases, has no symptoms. However, when they do occur, they usually include high fever, headaches, body aches, nausea, and skin rashes. Although most recover in one or two weeks, some can develop severe forms that require hospitalization, which can be fatal when not treated appropriately and adequately.

As of mid-May 2024, the Americas region has reported more than 8.1 million cases of dengue, which is 3.3 times more cases than in the same period last year. Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay, Peru, Colombia and Mexico are the countries with the most reported cases. Additionally, more than 3,600 dengue-related deaths have been recorded across the region.

For its part, Mexico has reported more than 65,000 cases of dengue, Guatemala more than 12,000, Honduras more than 20,000 and Panama more than 5,800, all with between 2.5 and almost six times more cases than in the same period in 2023. In The Caribbean, countries and territories have reported more than 21,000 cases, that is, 5.7 more cases than during the same period of the previous year.

Given this unprecedented regional increase in dengue cases, PAHO urges to intensify efforts to combat the mosquito vector and this disease, for which there is no specific treatment.

PAHO emphasizes the importance of timely clinical diagnosis, early identification of warning signs and proper management of patients to avoid serious cases and functions. Calls on healthcare workers to provide clear guidance to patients and their families to monitor for warning signs and seek immediate medical attention if any of these signs occur.

The Organization offers resources and training through its dengue virtual courseavailable free of charge on its Virtual Public Health Campus.

PAHO recommends that Member States make effective use of available resources to prevent and/or control vector infestation in affected areas and in health services.

In addition, it reminds the population of the importance of eliminating mosquito breeding sites in their homes and surroundings, and of taking precautions to avoid bites, such as using repellent and clothing that covers arms and legs.

PAHO reiterates its commitment to supporting countries in the implementation of effective measures in the fight against dengue and other mosquito-borne diseases, and to continue monitoring the situation and providing technical guidance to affected countries.