Health Ministry Issues Circular to Monitor and Address Dengue Outbreak in South America
In response to the alarming surge in dengue cases in Brazil and Argentina, the Ministry of Health has issued a circular urging the Maritime, Air and Border Health Offices (USMAF-SASN) to raise the level of alert and vigilance towards carriers and imported goods from countries at high risk of dengue transmission.
The circular emphasizes the need for careful monitoring of disinsection of aircraft and the consideration of extraordinary interventions for the surveillance of vector populations and other pests. According to the Ministry, the global increase in dengue cases necessitates immediate action to prevent the spread of the disease.
In Brazil, the dengue outbreak has reached critical levels, with over 512,000 suspected cases registered in the first six weeks of 2024. This represents a significant increase compared to the previous year, with 75 confirmed deaths and investigations underway for an additional 350 cases. The state of Minas Gerais is the most affected, followed by Sao Paulo, Federal District, Paraná, Rio de Janeiro, Goiás, Espírito Santo, and Santa Catarina.
To combat the outbreak, Brazil has launched a mass vaccination campaign targeting children aged 10-11 years.
The dengue alarm has also extended to Argentina, where over 39,000 cases and 29 related deaths have been reported. Approximately 14 out of 24 provinces in Argentina have reported viral circulation, with a transmission rate of 86 cases per 100,000 inhabitants nationwide.
The Ministry of Health‘s circular comes as a proactive measure to address the growing threat of dengue in South America. It highlights the importance of coordinated efforts to monitor and control the spread of the disease, emphasizing the need for immediate action to prevent further transmission.
As the situation continues to evolve, health authorities are advised to remain vigilant and take all necessary measures to curb the dengue outbreak and protect the populations at risk. The Ministry’s circular serves as a timely reminder of the critical need for proactive and decisive action in response to the escalating dengue crisis in South America.