08 Feb 2024 | 07:16 AM UTC
Peru: Elevated dengue fever activity reported in multiple areas, especially Piura, in early February
Increased dengue fever activity reported in multiple areas in Peru, especially Piura, in early February. Avoid mosquito bites.
Health authorities have reported elevated dengue fever activity in multiple areas in Peru, with 9,353 total cases reported Jan. 1-27. This is compared to the 6,627 cases reported during a similar period in 2023. Piura (1,499 cases) is the most affected, followed by La Libertad (1,085 cases), Ica (1,016 cases), San Martin (919 cases), Ancash (816 cases), Loreto (730 cases), and Ucayali (693 cases). The Peru Ministry of Health issued an epidemiological alert on Jan. 31 to alert healthcare facilities about the outbreak and to intensify disease prevention and control measures. This report represents the most complete data available as of Feb. 8.
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 year-round threat in areas of Peru below 2,000 meters elevation; however, transmission is typically highest September-May when environmental conditions are ideal for mosquito breeding. Peru reported roughly 271,733 dengue fever cases nationwide in 2023, 63,168 cases in 2022, 44,791 cases in 2021, and 47,932 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.
