27 Mar 2024 | 01:54 PM UTC
Puerto Rico: Elevated dengue fever activity reported in multiple areas, especially San Juan, through March
Elevated dengue fever activity reported in multiple areas in Puerto Rico through March. San Juan is most affected. Avoid mosquito bites.
Health authorities have reported elevated dengue fever activity in multiple areas in Puerto Rico, with 549 total cases reported Jan. 1-March 10. This is compared to the 237 cases reported in Puerto Rico over a similar period in 2023. San Juan (270 cases) is most affected, followed by Bayamón (75 cases), Mayagüez (61 cases), Aguadilla (45 cases), Caguas (40 cases), Arecibo (28 cases), Fajardo (21 cases), and Ponce (9 cases). Local health authorities urge the public to implement disease prevention measures, including eliminating mosquito breeding sites, using insect repellent, wearing clothing that covers the skin, using mosquito nets, and seeking immediate medical attention if experiencing any symptoms. This report represents the most complete data available as of March 27.
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.
Puerto Rican health authorities declared a public health emergency on March 25, 2024, in order to access resources needed to strengthen disease surveillance, prevention, vector control measures, and clinical management. Dengue fever is considered a nationwide, year-round threat in Puerto Rico, with risk of infection highest from August-December. Health authorities identified 1,293 cases of dengue fever in Puerto Rico in 2023, 1,023 cases in 2022, 636 cases in 2021, and 914 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.
