13 Feb 2024 | 07:52 AM UTC
Paraguay: Elevated dengue fever activity reported nationwide, especially Central department, in February
Elevated dengue fever activity reported nationwide in Paraguay, especially Central department, in February. Avoid mosquito bites.
Health authorities have reported elevated dengue fever activity nationwide in Paraguay, with 93,381 total cases (9,689 confirmed cases) reported Jan. 1-Feb. 4. This is compared to the 3,449 total cases reported during a similar period in 2023. The Central department (36,467 cases) is most affected, followed by Asuncion (15,228 cases), Itapua (10,645 cases), Paraguarí (4,870 cases), Caaguazu (4,466 cases), Cordillera (3,837 cases), and San Pedro (3,817 cases). Local health officials urge the public to eliminate mosquito breeding sites, seek immediate medical advice if they develop dengue-related symptoms, and to not self-medicate. 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.
Risk of dengue fever in Paraguay exists in some urban areas, as well as the departments of Alto Parana, Amambay, Asuncion, Caaguazu, Canindeyu, and Paraguari which are considered endemic areas. Risk of infection is highest November to March. Health authorities identified roughly 63,216 dengue fever cases in Paraguay in 2023, 7,428 cases in 2022,16,897 cases in 2021, and 223,782 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.
