10 Dec 2021 | 03:29 PM UTC
Pakistan: Elevated dengue fever activity outbreak continues nationwide through December /update 6
Nationwide dengue fever outbreak continues in Pakistan through December. Risk highest in Punjab. Avoid mosquito bites.
Event
Pakistani health officials continue to report a surge in dengue fever cases, with roughly 16,388 additional cases reported Nov. 19-Dec. 10. This is compared to approximately 1,153 cases reported over a similar period in 2020. Punjab (at least 27,758 cases) is the most affected, followed by Sindh (roughly 12,053), Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (10,547 cases), Islamabad Capital Territory (4,616 cases), and Balochistan (3,075 cases). This represents the most recent data available as of Dec. 10.
Context
Dengue fever is a year-round and nationwide risk in Pakistan. While dengue fever is endemic to the coastal areas of Balochistan, activity has historically been highest in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province. Authorities reported 3,442 dengue fever cases in Pakistan in 2017, more than 3,200 in 2018, almost 24,547 in 2019, and 3,442 cases in 2020.
A dengue fever vaccine is available in some countries. It is only recommended for individuals with a history of dengue infection and in a country with high dengue fever burden. Transmission of dengue fever occurs through the bite of an infected mosquito. Symptoms of dengue fever include a sudden onset of fever and at least one of the following: severe headache, severe pain behind the eyes, muscle and/or joint pain, rash, easy bruising, and/or nose or gum bleeding. Symptoms typically appear 5-7 days after being bitten but can develop up to 10 days after exposure. Dengue fever can progress to a more severe form known as dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF). DHF can be fatal if it is not recognized and treated in a timely manner.
Advice
If previously infected with dengue fever, consult your physician regarding vaccination. Avoid mosquito bites and remove standing water to reduce the number of biting mosquitoes. Seek medical attention if symptoms develop within two weeks of being in affected areas. Do not use aspirin or ibuprofen products if dengue fever is suspected, as these could exacerbate bleeding tendencies associated with the disease.
