12 Jun 2024 | 03:46 PM UTC
Panama: Elevated dengue fever activity reported in multiple areas, notably Panama City in June
Elevated dengue fever activity reported in Panama, notably Panama City, in June. Avoid mosquito bites.
Health officials have reported elevated dengue fever activity in multiple areas in Panama, with 7,087 cases reported Jan. 1-June 2. This is compared to the 2,779 cases reported over a similar period in 2023. The most affected areas are Panama Metro (2,821 cases), San Miguelito (1,759 cases), West Panama (1,606 cases), and North Panama (1,479 cases). Local health officials continue to conduct enhanced disease surveillance, case management, and vector control activities in affected areas. This report represents the most complete data available as of June 12.
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 is endemic in Panama year-round, especially during the rainy season. Health authorities reported 20,924 dengue fever cases in Panama in 2023, 11,924 cases in 2022, 3,685 cases in 2021, and 3,987 cases in 2020.
Dengue fever is transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito. 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. There are two dengue fever vaccines, Dengvaxia (CYD-TDV) and Qdenga (TAK-003). Dengvaxia is only recommended for individuals with a history of dengue infection and who live in dengue-endemic countries or areas. Qdenga is recommended for use in children aged 6–16 in settings with high dengue burden and transmission intensity. Check with your healthcare provider if dengue vaccination is needed.
