23 Feb 2024 | 09:34 AM UTC
Laos: Elevated dengue fever activity reported in multiple areas, especially Sekong, in February
Elevated dengue fever activity reported in multiple areas in Laos in February. Sekong is most affected. Avoid mosquito bites.
Health authorities have reported elevated dengue fever activity in multiple areas in Laos, with 1,075 total cases reported Jan. 1-Feb. 22. This is compared to the 271 cases reported over a similar period in 2023. Sekong (296 cases) is most affected, followed by Vientiane (221 cases), Luang Namtha (175 cases), Luang Prabang (68 cases), Oudomxay (67 cases), and Phongsaly (47 cases). Local health officials urge the public to take the necessary dengue prevention measures, including regularly clearing waste and stagnant water in their surroundings to eliminate possible mosquito breeding sites. This report represents the most complete data available as of Feb. 23.
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 threat in Laos; however, the risk is typically highest May-September during the monsoon season. Laos reported roughly 35,317 dengue fever cases nationwide in 2023, 32,364 cases in 2022, 1,400 cases in 2021, and 7,700 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 promptly.
