19 Feb 2024 | 11:09 AM UTC
Argentina: Elevated dengue fever activity reported in multiple areas, especially Chaco Province, in February /update 1
Elevated dengue fever activity reported in multiple areas in Argentina in February; Chaco Province is most affected. Avoid mosquito bites.
Health authorities have reported elevated dengue fever activity in multiple areas in Argentina, with an additional 10,383 cases reported Jan. 15-Feb. 4, bringing the total case count to 21,850 cases since Jan. 1. This is compared to the 36 cases reported during a similar period in 2023. The Argentine Ministry of Health reported that from August 2023 to mid-February 2024, the country reported an incidence rate of 104 cases per 100,000 population at risk (44,755 total cases). During this period, Chaco (18,117 cases) was most affected, followed by Formosa (12,710 cases), Misiones (4,216 cases), Corrientes (4,002 cases), and Sante Fe (2,076 cases). Health officials urge the public to take necessary disease prevention measures, including eliminating mosquito breeding sites, avoiding mosquito bites, and to seek medical attention if they are experiencing any symptoms. This report represents the most complete data available as of Feb. 19.
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.
Risk of dengue fever infection exists year-round in Argentina, in both urban and rural areas from Buenos Aires northward; however, risk of infection is highest October to May. Health authorities reported 130,287 cases of dengue fever in Argentina in 2023, 815 cases in 2022, and 3,972 cases in 2021.
There are two dengue fever vaccines, Dengvaxia and Qdenga. It is only recommended for individuals with a history of dengue infection and in a country with a high dengue fever burden. Dengue fever is transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito. The risk of infection is often highest in urban and semi-urban areas. 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.
