Mexico: Dengue fever outbreak in Guanajuato

Event

At least 2600 cases of dengue fever, including four deaths, have been confirmed in the state of Guanajuato in 2017 (as of late October). According to reports, 42 of the state's 46 municipalities are affected. The worst-hit areas include León, Celaya, and Juventino Rosas.

Context

Dengue fever is transmitted via the Aedes aegypti mosquito. Symptoms typically include fever, headache, muscle and joint pain, fatigue, nausea, and rash. Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF) is a potentially deadly complication that is characterized by high fever, the enlargement of the liver, and hemorrhaging. The disease is mostly found in urban and semi-urban areas. Be aware that aspirin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (ibuprofen) should be avoided as these drugs may worsen bleeding issues associated with the diseases; patients may be given doses of acetaminophen (paracetamol).

As a reminder, other mosquito-borne diseases are present in the country, predominantly in the south, including malaria (in rural areas of Chiapas state), Zika virus, and chikungunya.

Advice

Individuals in Guanajuato are advised to take measures to protect themselves from mosquito bites - e.g. by wearing loose, covering clothing, using insect repellent, and sleeping in a screened-in or in an air-conditioned room.