Dengue fever, a disease spread by mosquitoes, poses a significant threat, claiming thousands of lives every year. Whether it’s the heat of summer or the monsoon season, dengue cases surge annually. Let’s delve into its symptoms and prevention measures. Dengue is not just a concern for India, but for many countries around the world, making it a serious global issue.
Rising Dengue Cases Worldwide
As temperatures rise, dengue cases escalate in many parts of the world. However, this year’s situation is particularly dire compared to previous years. You might be surprised to learn that in Latin American and Caribbean countries, the disease has wreaked havoc to the extent that the military has been called in to control it. Camps have been set up in various locations to provide medicine and treatment to patients. More than 6 million cases have been reported within four months. This disease is being linked to global warming.
Dengue Situation in Other Countries
Brazil is one of the worst-hit countries by dengue. Between January and April 2024, nearly 400,000 cases were reported, affecting around 1.8% of the total population. The death toll from dengue fever has surpassed 2,000, making it the deadliest outbreak of dengue fever so far.
The Dengue Crisis in Brazil
Emergency has been declared in all 26 states of Brazil due to this disease. Military personnel are setting up field hospitals where people will receive treatment. Camps are being established in various places in the capital, Brasília, to accommodate patients who cannot find space in hospitals. It is estimated that the peak season is yet to come, and the situation may worsen in May-June.
Dengue Figures in Other Countries
Peru is completely under the grip of dengue. A state of emergency has been declared in the country due to this disease. In the past four months, Peru has seen over 2.5 million cases and 117 deaths. Additionally, countries like Argentina, Mexico, Uruguay, and Chile are also struggling significantly with dengue.
Central American countries and Mexico witness dengue cases every year, whereas Chile and Uruguay have relatively fewer cases. According to the American Health Organization, there are fewer cases in Uruguay now compared to before.
Reasons Behind the Rise in Dengue Cases
Climate change is considered a major factor. Over the past 30 years, every decade has seen a 0.2 degree Celsius increase in temperature in Latin American countries. According to the State of the Climate in Latin America and the Caribbean 2022 report, not only is the climate changing, but the number of mosquitoes has also increased. The most alarming aspect is the increase in mosquito species due to warmer temperatures, leading to a deteriorating situation in Latin America and the Caribbean.
The El Niño pattern is also a contributing factor. When temperatures drop below 15 degrees Celsius, mosquito populations decrease. However, this temperature is not being reached in these countries. Moreover, the El Niño pattern has increased mosquito populations, leading to a significant rise in temperatures in these regions. The start of this weather pattern in the Caribbean and Latin America began last year.
World Health Organization’s Statements on Dengue
The dengue crisis is rapidly escalating in Latin America and the Caribbean, leading to an increased demand for a dengue vaccine. Many discussions have been held regarding the dengue vaccine. According to the World Health Organization’s research, those who have not had dengue before but receive the vaccine might face severe consequences when they contract dengue for the first time. Therefore, WHO advises taking more fluids and medications to prevent infection when bitten by mosquitoes.
Countries Without Dengue Mosquitoes
It might come as a surprise that there are only four countries worldwide where dengue and malaria mosquitoes are not found. These countries include New Caledonia, Iceland, Seychelles, and French Polynesia.
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