PAHO notes increase in dengue cases in Guatemala and other countries

The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) called on the countries of the American continent to intensify efforts for the prevention and control of dengue, a disease transmitted through the bite of the Aedes aegypti mosquito. This is because an increase in cases has been observed in different nations, including Guatemala.

Through a statement to which the Voice of America has had access, the international entity indicated that in Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Guatemala, Guadeloupe, French Guiana, Martinique, Mexico, Paraguay and Peru there was “an increase in dengue cases” reported in the first weeks of 2024.

The PAHO detailed that in 2023 the highest incidence rate of this virus was recorded with almost 4.5 million cases and 2,340 deaths. This has persisted this year, with 673,267 cases and 102 deaths reported until the first days of February.

“The figures represent an increase of 157% compared to the same period of the previous year and an increase of 225% compared to the average of the last five years,” he highlighted.

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Guatemala exceeds 72 thousand cases of dengue

The Ministry of Public Health and Social Assistance (MSPAS) updated the information regarding the dengue situation in Guatemala. As detailed, until December 30, 2023, 72,358 cases of dengue were registered, with the highest incidence in the department of Zacapa.

The figures reflect that, of this total, 60,437 (84%) correspond to dengue without warning signs. Meanwhile, 11,563 (16%) patients presented alarm signs.

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Separately, the ministry highlighted that 156 cases of severe dengue were also reported, of which there are 118 deaths nationwide.

“The MSPAS continues to assist the Guatemalan population and promote prevention plans to combat dengue at the national level. Given this, through the Directorate of Epidemiology and Risk Management. The epidemiological situation of arboviruses in Guatemala is updated,” he highlighted in a statement.

The institution that is in charge of monitoring the health issue also indicated that it has a record of 57 cases of chikungunya and 53 of Zika until that date.