03 Sep 2024 | 03:10 PM UTC
India: Elevated dengue fever activity reported in multiple areas in Tamil Nadu in early September
Elevated dengue fever activity reported in multiple areas in Tamil Nadu, India, in early September. Avoid mosquito bites.
Health authorities have reported elevated dengue fever activity in Tamil Nadu, with 11,743 total cases reported Jan. 1-Sept. 1. This is compared to the 4,048 cases reported during a similar period in 2023. Ten districts account for 58 percent of the total case count, including Chennai, Coimbatore, Krishnagiri, Madurai, Thanjavur, Theni, Tiruchirappalli, Tirunelveli, Tiruppur, and Tiruvallur. Chennai is the most affected district, accounting for nearly 14 percent of all cases, followed by Coimbatore (11 percent) and Krishnagiri (8 percent). Local health officials have implemented response measures for the prevention and early diagnosis of dengue fever, and other diseases. This report represents the most complete data available as of Sept. 3.
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 is considered a year-round and nationwide risk in India, with the highest risk typically occurring from June to September. Authorities reported approximately 9,112 dengue fever cases in Tamil Nadu in 2023, 6,430 cases in 2022, 6,039 cases in 2021, and 2,410 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.
