05 Sep 2024 | 03:00 PM UTC
Cabo Verde: Elevated dengue fever activity reported in multiple areas in early September
Elevated dengue fever activity reported in multiple areas in Cabo Verde in early September. Avoid mosquito bites.
Health authorities have reported elevated dengue fever activity in Cabo Verde, with more than 2,200 cases reported Nov. 6- Aug. 29. Multiple areas are affected, with Santiago, Fogo, and Brava islands reporting the highest disease incidence. The government declared a civil protection alert in affected locations, which is renewable after three months, to mobilize exceptional preventive measures. These measures include forming a Task Force to support health structures responding to the public health emergency. Health officials advise the public to eliminate mosquito breeding sites at home, use insect repellent, wear long-sleeved clothing, and seek prompt medical attention if symptoms appear. This report represents the most complete data available as of Sept. 5.
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.
In Cabo Verde, mosquito activity is highest during the wet season (August-October). In 2019, health officials reported approximately 21,137 cases during the country's biggest outbreak. The previous year's case counts were roughly one case in 2019 and none from 2020-2022.
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.
