UN agency warns of nearly 50% increase in dengue cases in Americas, declaring ’emergency situation’

In a recent press briefing held by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), it was revealed that an “emergency situation” has emerged in the Americas due to the rising number of dengue cases. PAHO, a United Nations agency, reported a significant increase in dengue cases, with over 5.2 million cases confirmed this year, a jump of over 48 per cent from the previous report. The death toll from the mosquito-borne viral illness has also risen to over 1,800, up from the previous report of over 1,000 deaths.

PAHO Director Jarbas Barbosa highlighted that Argentina and Brazil are the worst-hit countries in the current outbreak, with a high level of dengue transmission. However, there seems to be a stabilization or reduction in cases in these hotspots in recent weeks. Despite the severity of the situation, Barbosa warned that the supply of the existing dengue vaccine is limited, and widespread vaccination would not have an immediate impact on interrupting the outbreak.

Barbosa emphasized the importance of the dengue vaccine in reducing severe cases and deaths but mentioned that it would take time for the vaccine’s effects to reflect in the decrease of dengue cases. Dengue symptoms include fever, headaches, vomiting, skin rashes, muscle, and joint pain, and in severe cases, it can lead to hemorrhagic fever and death.

As the Americas face this dengue outbreak, health authorities are working diligently to control the spread of the disease and provide necessary treatment to those affected. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing situation.