02 May 2024 | 12:02 PM UTC
Burkina Faso: Elevated dengue fever activity reported nationwide, especially the Centre region, in early May
Elevated dengue fever activity reported nationwide in Burkina Faso in early May. The Centre region is most affected. Avoid mosquito bites.
Health official have reported elevated dengue fever activity nationwide in Burkina Faso, with 21,352 total cases reported from Jan. 1-April 28. Two regions account for 72 percent of reported cases; the Centre region (12,782 cases) is most affected, followed by Haut Bassin (2,675 cases). Local health officials continue to conduct enhanced disease surveillance, case management, vector control, and risk communication activities in affected areas. This report represents the most complete data available as of May 2.
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 considered a year-round, nationwide threat in Burkina Faso; however, risk is highest May-October. Health authorities identified roughly 242,425 cases of dengue fever in Burkina Faso in 2023, 13,794 cases in 2021, 2,512 cases in 2020, and 5,278 cases in 2019.
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.
