Dengue cases in the Americas surpass 3 million, Puerto Rico declares epidemic
The World Health Organization has reported that the number of dengue cases in the American region has exceeded 3 million since the beginning of the year, with approximately 80% of cases concentrated in Brazil. This marks a new record for the region, surpassing the 2023 total of 4.5 million cases.
Puerto Rico’s government has declared a dengue epidemic after seeing a spike in cases on the Caribbean island. From the start of 2024 to March 10, 549 cases of dengue were recorded, with 29 serious cases and 341 hospitalizations. The infections are primarily in cities such as San Juan, Bayamon, Guaynabo, and Carolina.
The CDC is working with the Puerto Rico Department of Health to monitor the virus and train health workers, as well as conduct disinfection campaigns. Puerto Rico’s Department of Health is focusing on improving surveillance, laboratory activities, vector control, and awareness interventions.
Abroad, Italy has recorded a case of dengue at a hospital in Genoa, with the patient arriving from Argentina. Brazilian health authorities are relying on early diagnoses to combat the spread of the virus, as the country has seen a reduction in mortality rates.
The Italian government is taking preventative measures to stop the spread of dengue, including increased airport and sea port checks and requiring certificates of disinfestation for certain goods. Japan’s Takeda has developed a dengue vaccine, although vaccination rates in Brazil remain low.
Experts warn that the peak of dengue infections in Brazil is expected to occur in May, with projections estimating over 4.2 million cases by the end of the year. Vigilance and preventive measures are crucial in combating the spread of the virus in both the Americas and abroad.