13 Feb 2024 | 09:38 AM UTC
Costa Rica: Elevated dengue fever activity reported in multiple areas in February /update 1
Elevated dengue fever activity reported in multiple areas in Costa Rica in February. Avoid mosquito bites.
Costa Rican health authorities have reported elevated dengue fever activity in multiple areas, with an additional 1,603 cases reported Jan. 21-27, bringing the total to 2,679 cases since Jan. 1. This is compared to the 253 cases reported during a similar period in 2023. The Central Norte Region (646 cases) is most affected, followed by Central Sur (519 cases), Central Pacific (454 cases), Chorotega (332 cases), Central Este (254 cases), Huetar Atlantic Region (237 cases), and Brunca (120 cases). Cantons reporting the highest number of cases include Alajuela (308 cases), San Jose (236 cases), Puntarenas (218 cases), Turrialba (183 cases), and Atenas (94 cases). Local health officials have implemented disease prevention and vector control measures, including fumigation and the elimination of breeding sites around homes. This report represents the most complete data available as of Feb. 13.
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.
Dengue fever is a nationwide, year-round risk in Costa Rica, with risk of infection typically highest May-October in urban and coastal areas. Costa Rican health authorities reported roughly 30,649 dengue fever cases nationwide in 2023, 7,485 cases in 2022, 5,174 cases in 2021, and 10,056 cases in 2020.
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.
