In a recent press briefing, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) Director, Dr. Jarbas Barbosa, issued a warning about the alarming rise in dengue cases throughout Latin America and the Caribbean. As of March 26, the region has reported over 3.5 million cases of dengue, a significant increase compared to the same period in 2023, which had more than 4.5 million cases.

Dr. Barbosa expressed concern over the surge and emphasized the need for proactive measures to curb the transmission of the virus, which is spread by mosquitoes. He noted that Barbados, Costa Rica, Guadeloupe, Guatemala, Martinique, and Mexico were particularly experiencing an uptick, especially in the second half of the year when transmission rates are usually higher.

The severity of the situation has prompted U.S. embassies to issue health alerts in various countries within the region. These alerts advise individuals to cover their arms and legs, use mosquito repellent, and avoid stagnant water, which serves as a breeding ground for mosquitoes.

Puerto Rico, a U.S. territory, has declared a dengue public health emergency due to a surge in cases, predominantly in the capital city, San Juan. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has emphasized that dengue viruses are primarily transmitted to people through the bite of infected Aedes species mosquitoes. Symptoms can range from mild to life-threatening, with about 1 in 20 people developing severe dengue, which can be fatal. Common symptoms include fever, headaches, nausea, vomiting, rash, and body pain.

Dr. Barbosa called for a collective effort to combat the dengue problem, urging all sectors of society to be engaged. This includes eliminating mosquito breeding sites, protecting against mosquito bites, enhancing preparedness in health services for early diagnosis and timely clinical management, and educating the population about dengue symptoms and the importance of seeking prompt medical attention.

As the number of dengue cases in Latin America and the Caribbean continues to soar, it is crucial for governments, health organizations, and communities to work together to implement proactive measures to control the spread of the virus. Increased awareness, prevention efforts, and efficient healthcare systems are essential to mitigate the impact of this growing public health concern.