15 Aug 2024 | 02:34 PM UTC
Panama: Elevated dengue fever activity reported nationwide, especially Panama Metro, in August
Elevated dengue fever activity has been reported nationwide in Panama in August. Panama Metro is most affected. Avoid mosquito bites.
Health officials have reported elevated dengue fever activity nationwide in Panama, with 16,149 total cases (11,815 confirmed) reported Jan. 1-Aug. 4. This is compared to the 4,451 confirmed cases reported over a similar period in 2023. On July 29, local officials declared a health alert in the regions of Panama Metro, Colon, Panama East, and Panama West due to the high incidence of cases. Panama Metro (3,434 cases) is the most affected, followed by Colon with (1,690 cases), Panama West (1,230 cases), Chiriqui (974 cases), Panama North (901 cases), Bocas del Toro (807 cases), and Panama East (743 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 Aug. 15.
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.
The risk of dengue fever is present nationwide in Panama and is 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. 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.
