18 Jul 2024 | 12:45 PM UTC
Mali: Elevated dengue fever activity was reported in multiple areas in July
Elevated dengue fever activity reported in multiple areas in Mali in July. Avoid mosquito bites.
Health authorities have reported elevated dengue fever activity in multiple areas in Mali, with 5,142 total cases (631 cases confirmed) and six deaths reported Jan. 1-July 12. Between July 5-12, 223 new cases were reported from Bamako and Kayes regions. Ten of Mali's 11 regions are affected, and the Bamako region is the most affected, accounting for 25 percent of confirmed cases. This report represents the most complete data available as of July 18.
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 outbreaks in Mali are not common. The country’s wet season, which spans June through September, could be conducive to mosquito breeding and transmission due to standing water. In 2023, there were 6177 reported cases, with 34 associated deaths.
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.
