16 Apr 2024 | 07:10 AM UTC
Uruguay: Elevated dengue fever activity reported in multiple areas, especially Salto, in April /update 1
Elevated dengue fever activity reported in multiple areas in Uruguay in April. Salto is most affected. Avoid mosquito bites.
Health authorities have reported elevated dengue fever activity in multiple areas in Uruguay, with an additional 260 locally acquired cases reported March 26-April 15, bringing the total case count to 322 locally acquired cases since Jan. 1. The last locally acquired dengue fever cases in Uruguay were reported in 2020 when two cases were identified. Salto (150 cases) is the most affected, followed by Paysandu (76 cases), Montevideo (53 cases), Artigas (10 cases), San Jose (9 cases), Rivera (6 cases), Durazno (5 cases), and Canelones (4 cases). Local health officials urge the public to take the necessary mosquito bite prevention measures, including regularly clearing possible mosquito breeding sites, wearing protective clothing, using mosquito repellent, and clearing waste. This report represents the most complete data available as of April 16.
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.
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.
