Dengue fever deaths have skyrocketed across the Caribbean and the Americas in 2024, with over 7,700 reported fatalities so far this year, according to health officials. This represents a staggering increase of over 200% compared to last year’s 2,467 deaths.
The Pan American Health Organization (Paho) attributes the surge to climatic events such as warmer temperatures, droughts, and flooding. The organization has also linked the rise in dengue cases to rapid population growth, unplanned urbanization, and poor sanitation.
Brazil is currently reporting the highest number of dengue cases, with over 10 million reported so far, followed by Argentina and Mexico. In the Caribbean region, Guyana is leading the way with more than 41,000 cases.
This year’s outbreak has also seen local transmission in California, Florida, and Texas, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The virus can spread rapidly due to its four distinct types, none of which provide immunity from others.
Infected individuals may experience mild symptoms such as headache and fever but can also suffer severe complications like bleeding and shock. In some cases, repeated infections can be particularly deadly.
Dengue cases typically peak during the wet season, but Puerto Rico declared an epidemic in late March after recording over 4,900 cases and nine deaths so far this year. Residents are being warned that control of the outbreak relies on cooperation from the public.
Experts stress that vaccines against dengue have limited impact due to supply constraints, particularly for children who require booster shots to build immunity. Preventive measures such as eliminating mosquitoes remain essential in preventing the spread of the disease.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2024/dec/11/dengue-fever-deaths-caribbean-americas