In record year of dengue cases, PAHO urges countries to strengthen response as seasonal transmission set to begin in South America – PAHO/WHO

Washington, DC, October 8, 2024 (PAHO) — In an epidemiological alert this week, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) urged countries in the Americas to strengthen their dengue response plans as cases continue increasing throughout the region. As the year 2024 marks a record number of dengue cases and the start of the transmission season in South America, PAHO emphasizes the importance of surveillance, early diagnosis and timely care to prevent serious cases and deaths.

PAHO highlighted that the Region of the Americas has reported more than 11.7 million cases of dengue as of September 9, 2024, more than double the number of cases reported in 2023. All four serotypes of the dengue virus are now circulating in the region, which increases the risk. of serious illness.

The Southern Cone subregion has seen a significant increase in cases, with increases of more than 250% compared to the same period in 2023. While the case fatality rate has remained relatively low in the subregion, the potential for an increase in cases could lead to more serious outcomes. and place a burden on health systems.

PAHO urges Member States to prioritize surveillance, early diagnosis, and timely care for dengue and other arboviruses. This includes taking timely measures to strengthen health systems, train health workers, and provide clear guidance to patients and their families.

PAHO’s key recommendations include:

• Strengthening surveillance and notification of suspected and confirmed cases.
• Analyze the distribution of cases to identify critical points and intensify vector control efforts.
• Implement effective vector control measures to reduce the density of Aedes aegypti mosquitoes to prevent transmission.
• Educate the population about transmission and prevention measures and involve communities in reducing the presence of Aedes aegypti mosquitoes.
• Train health personnel in the clinical management of dengue, with a focus on early diagnosis and recognition of warning signs.

PAHO also recommends that health facilities prepare to handle a potentially higher number of dengue cases during peak transmission seasons, ensuring adequate patient flow and clinical care. The Organization offers a free virtual course on dengue management through its Virtual Public Health Campus and provides guidelines for clinical diagnosis and treatment.

By taking these measures, countries can help mitigate the impact of dengue and reduce the number of severe cases and deaths.