DENGUE/DHF UPDATE (117): PUERTO RICO

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Date: Tue 19 Nov 2024 16:20 ET Source: CNN Spanish [in Spanish, trans. Mod.TY, edited] https://cnnespanol.cnn.com/2024/11/19/alerta-puerto-rico-aumento-dengue-orix

The Puerto Rico Department of Health (DSPR) reported on Sunday [17 Nov 2024] that the number of confirmed positive cases of dengue on the island so far in 2024 is 4798, a significant increase of more than triple compared to 2023, when 1242 were recorded.

In a press release, the DSPR indicated that “to date, 9 deaths have been confirmed and an additional one is under investigation.”

“The Department of Health has implemented all the necessary tools to deal with this situation. It is fundamental that communities commit to eliminating mosquito breeding sites, using repellent and protecting themselves from bites. Without citizen participation, it is impossible to contain this epidemic,” said Dr. Carlos Mellado, Secretary of Health, in the letter.

The Puerto Rico Department of Health explained that mosquito repellents have been given to people at mass events and training has been conducted for field health professionals, in addition to updating the guide for ordering dengue diagnostic tests.

Among the municipalities with the highest incidence are San Juan with 995 cases, followed by Carolina with 293 and Rincón with 240. The most affected age groups are people from 40 to 59 years old (936 cases), adolescents from 15 to 19 years old (737), and children from 10 to 14 years old (683), the statement said.

Last March [2024], the department had issued a public health emergency declaration for dengue because the reported cases were at historic levels. At that time, 549 cases of dengue had been recorded.

Note: An advanced warning for those planning to attend the 2025 AMCA meeting in San Juan. All the hurricanes and rain this winter may extend these case numbers by March. Bring repellent!