3,600 Dengue-related Deaths Reported in the Americas

Due to the rise in dengue fever cases in the southern hemisphere this year and the start of the high transmission season in the northern hemisphere, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) is urging the Caribbean and Central American countries to enhance preventive measures against this mosquito-borne viral disease.

An Epidemiological Alert announced on May 28, 2024, reported that the Americas region has reported more than 8.1 million suspected dengue cases, a 3.3-fold increase compared to the same period in 2023.

More than 3,600 dengue-related deaths have been reported throughout the region.

Mexico has reported over 65,000 dengue cases, Guatemala over 12,000, Honduras over 20,000, and Panama over 5,800.

Meanwhile, countries and territories in the Caribbean have reported over 21,000 cases, representing a 5.7-fold increase compared to the corresponding period last year.

Previously, the U.S. CDC stated that most dengue cases reported in the 49 continental states occur in travelers infected elsewhere. As of May 2024, travel-related and locally acquired dengue outbreaks were reported in southeast Florida, New York, and Puerto Rico in 2024.

In today's Alert, the PAHO emphasizes the importance of timely clinical diagnosis, early identification of warning signs, and proper patient management to avoid severe cases and deaths.

In most cases, dengue has no symptoms and can present as flu-like. However, when symptoms do occur, they usually include high fever, headache, body aches, nausea and rash.

Although most people recover within one to two weeks, some can develop severe forms that require hospitalization. These can be fatal when not treated promptly and adequately.

Either of the two WHO-listed vaccines can also prevent dengue. Unfortunately, their availability will be limited in 2024.