Burkina Faso: Nationwide dengue fever outbreak continues /update 2

Event

At least 13 people have died in the ongoing dengue fever outbreak in Burkina Faso since the beginning of 2017, according to a statement made by the Ministry of Health on Friday, October 27. A total of 6699 suspected dengue cases have been reported this year, including 4428 probable cases. As part of efforts to control the outbreak, the government has implemented targeted mosquito spraying operations.

According to health officials, 12 of the country's 13 regions have been affected, although 64 percent of infections were reported in the Burkina Faso's central region, and in the capital city of Ouagadougou.

Context

Dengue fever is transmitted via the Aedes aegypti mosquito. Symptoms include fever, headache, muscle and joint pain, fatigue, nausea, and rash. Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF) is a potentially deadly complication that is characterized by high fever, the enlargement of the liver, and hemorrhaging. The disease is mostly found in urban and semi-urban areas. Be aware that aspirin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (ibuprofen) should be avoided as these drugs may worsen bleeding issues associated with the diseases. Patients may be given doses of acetaminophen (paracetamol). Dengue fever is particularly dangerous for those who have previously been infected with the disease.

Advice

Individuals in Burkina Faso are advised to take measures to protect themselves from mosquito bites - e.g., by wearing loose, covering clothing, using insect repellent, and sleeping in a screened-in or in an air-conditioned room - and to eliminate possible mosquito breeding grounds.