16 Jul 2024 | 10:43 AM UTC
Togo: Elevated dengue fever activity reported in multiple areas in July
Elevated dengue fever activity reported in multiple areas in Togo in July. Avoid mosquito bites.
Health authorities have reported elevated dengue fever activity in multiple areas, specifically the Lome health district, with 197 cases reported May 7-June 30. This is compared to 8 cases reported for 2023, representing a 2362.5 percent increase in disease activity compared to the previous year. Local health officials urge the public to take the necessary mosquito bite prevention measures, including regularly cleaning the areas around their homes and clearing standing water. This report represents the most complete data available as of July 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.
Togo has a tropical climate with warm to hot weather year-round, conducive to mosquito breeding, especially during the rainy season April-October. The country reported 12 dengue fever cases in 2017 and 8 cases in 2023, with no associated deaths.
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 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.
