Latin America and the Caribbean are currently facing a record surge in dengue cases, prompting the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) to advocate for proactive measures to combat the disease. As of March 26, PAHO Director Dr. Jarbas Barbosa reported over 3.5 million cases of dengue and over 1,000 deaths in the region.
Brazil, Paraguay, and Argentina have been hit the hardest, accounting for 92% of cases and 87% of deaths. However, an uptick in dengue cases has also been seen in Barbados, Costa Rica, Guadeloupe, Guatemala, Martinique, and Mexico. In response, U.S. embassies have started issuing health alerts, urging people to protect themselves against mosquito bites.
Puerto Rico declared a dengue public health emergency this week, underscoring the seriousness of the situation. Dengue viruses are spread through infected mosquitoes, with symptoms ranging from mild to life-threatening. Common symptoms include fever, headaches, nausea, vomiting, rash, and body pain.
PAHO is calling for efforts to eliminate mosquito breeding sites, protect against bites, and educate the population about the symptoms of dengue and the importance of seeking medical attention. With cases on the rise and the potential for further spread, it is crucial for countries in the region to take proactive measures to prevent the spread of dengue and protect their populations.
