08 Oct 2024 | 02:29 PM UTC
Cabo Verde: Elevated dengue fever activity reported in multiple areas, especially Santiago, in early October /update 1
Elevated dengue fever activity reported in multiple areas in Cabo Verde in early October. Santiago is most affected. Avoid mosquito bites.
Health authorities have reported elevated dengue fever activity in Cabo Verde, with a total of 8,576 cases (5,507 confirmed) reported Nov. 6, 2023- Sept. 30, 2024. The island of Santiago (6,330 cases) is the most affected, followed by Fogo (1,932 cases), Maio (189 cases), and Brava (78 cases). The Government of Cabo Verde has declared a state of contingency throughout the country in response to recent rains, which increased the risk of mosquito breeding sites and conditions favorable to the spread of the disease. This declaration aims to mobilize resources and strengthen disease prevention measures. This report represents the most complete data available as of Oct. 8.
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 2009, 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 children aged 6-16 in settings with high dengue burden and transmission intensity. Check with your healthcare provider if dengue vaccination is needed.
