Colombia: Elevated dengue fever activity reported nationwide through February

Event

Health authorities have reported elevated dengue fever activity nationwide in Colombia, with more than 13,680 cases reported Jan. 1-Feb. 19. This is 1.9 times higher than the 7,380 cases reported over a similar period in 2022. Barranquilla is the most affected department, reporting the highest disease activity. Other departments reporting high disease activity includes Atlantico, Cali, Cartagena, Meta, Soledad, and Villavicencio. The Colombian National Institute of Health highlighted the importance of taking preventative actions in affected departments to reduce the presence of mosquitoes, as well as providing information related to the identification of the disease in order to improve surveillance efforts. This represents the most complete information available as of Mar. 3.

Context

Dengue fever is a nationwide, year-round threat in Colombia, however, transmission is typically highest May-November during and immediately following the rainy season. Colombia reported roughly 69,497 dengue fever cases nationwide in 2022, 53,334 cases in 2021, and 78,979 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 countries with high dengue fever burdens. Dengue fever is transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito. Symptoms of dengue fever include a sudden onset of fever and at least one of the following: a severe headache, severe pain behind the eyes, muscle and 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 promptly.

Advice

If you have previously been infected with dengue fever, consult with 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.