(Commonwealth_ The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has reported a concerning surge in dengue cases across Latin America and the Caribbean in 2024. As of now, the region has recorded an alarming 9.3 million cases, which is double the number reported in all of 2023. Despite this spike, the fatality rate remains relatively low, a testament to the ongoing efforts in disease management and healthcare provision.
Dengue Overview and Statistics
Dengue is a mosquito-borne viral infection primarily transmitted by the Aedes aegypti mosquito. It causes a flu-like illness and can occasionally develop into severe dengue, leading to potentially fatal complications such as severe bleeding, organ impairment, and plasma leakage. The increase in dengue cases this year has raised public health concerns, but PAHO highlights that the fatality rate remains below the regional target of 0.05%. In 2024, the region reported more than 9,500 cases of severe dengue and over 4,500 deaths, resulting in a fatality rate of 0.048%.
PAHO Director Jarbas Barbosa emphasized, “While we are seeing a notable increase in the number of dengue cases in the region this year, it is important to highlight that the proportion of cases that progress to death remains low thanks to countries’ efforts and the support of PAHO.” This statement underscores the critical importance of sustained surveillance, effective prevention, and timely medical care in managing the outbreak.
Factors Contributing to the Surge
Several factors have contributed to the dramatic rise in dengue cases. One of the primary drivers is the territorial expansion of the Aedes aegypti mosquito. This species has extended its range into new areas, potentially influenced by climate change and phenomena like El Niño. Warmer temperatures and altered precipitation patterns create favorable breeding conditions for mosquitoes, enhancing their ability to spread the virus.
Moreover, rapid and often unplanned urban expansion, coupled with inadequate water and sanitation infrastructure, has exacerbated the situation. Urban environments provide numerous breeding sites, such as discarded containers that collect water, allowing mosquito populations to thrive. These conditions are prevalent in many parts of Latin America and the Caribbean, making effective vector control a significant challenge.
The COVID-19 pandemic has also played an indirect role in the current dengue surge. Reduced human exposure to the dengue virus during the pandemic, due to lockdowns and decreased travel, has led to an increase in the number of susceptible individuals. As restrictions have eased and mobility has resumed, the pool of people vulnerable to dengue has grown, contributing to the higher incidence rates observed this year.
Preventive Measures and Recommendations
As the peak season for dengue transmission approaches in the northern hemisphere, PAHO is urging countries to intensify their efforts in dengue prevention and control. Key strategies include:
Community Engagement and Education: Raising awareness about the importance of eliminating mosquito breeding sites is crucial. Communities should be educated on how to identify and remove potential breeding grounds, such as stagnant water in containers, old tires, and discarded items.
Personal Protective Measures: Individuals are encouraged to adopt protective behaviors, such as using mosquito repellent, wearing long-sleeved clothing, and using bed nets, especially in areas with high mosquito activity.
Timely Medical Care: Ensuring access to prompt and appropriate medical care is vital for managing dengue cases. Early detection and treatment can prevent the progression to severe dengue and reduce fatalities. PAHO advises that people seek immediate medical attention if they exhibit any signs of dengue, such as high fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, joint and muscle pain, rash, or mild bleeding.
Strengthening Surveillance and Response: Governments are urged to enhance their surveillance systems to quickly detect and respond to outbreaks. This includes increasing laboratory capacity for dengue testing, improving data collection and reporting, and mobilizing resources for outbreak response.
