Puerto Vallarta, Mexico – The Jalisco Health Secretariat (SSJ) has reported the first death attributed to dengue this year, alongside a significant increase in new infections. The dengue outbreak, which is transmitted by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, has become a growing concern as the state registers 453 new cases in the last epidemiological week, bringing the total to 2,612 cases for the year.
As of August 17, during epidemiological week 33, the situation in Puerto Vallarta has become particularly alarming. The popular tourist destination, part of the VIII Health Region, recorded 156 confirmed cases, the highest in the region. This marks a notable increase in the number of infections, contributing to the overall state figures.
The recent statistics released by the SSJ through their dengue monitoring website provide a detailed breakdown of the new cases. Out of the 453 new cases reported statewide, 281 are classified as non-severe dengue, 156 are dengue cases with warning signs, and 19 are cases of severe dengue, which was formerly referred to as hemorrhagic dengue due to its life-threatening complications.
In terms of geographical impact, the city of Guadalajara, the capital of Jalisco, continues to lead in the number of dengue cases. The municipality has reported 650 confirmed cases, which translates to an incidence rate of 39.78 per 100,000 inhabitants, the highest in the state.
In the VIII Health Region, which includes the coastal and highland areas of northern Jalisco, Puerto Vallarta remains the most affected, with 156 cases. The neighboring municipalities of Talpa de Allende, Cabo Corrientes, Tomatlán, and Mascota have also seen a rise in dengue cases, reporting 16, 8, 4, and 2 cases, respectively. This brings the total number of cases in this region to 186.
The spread of dengue has now reached approximately 70 out of Jalisco’s 125 municipalities, illustrating the widespread nature of the outbreak as the region enters the height of its rainy season, a period known for increased mosquito activity.
The SSJ has been actively promoting preventive measures through public health campaigns, emphasizing the importance of eliminating standing water, which serves as breeding sites for the Aedes aegypti mosquito. Additionally, the Secretariat has ramped up fumigation efforts and community education programs aimed at reducing the mosquito population and the risk of further dengue transmission.
The first reported death from dengue in the state underscores the seriousness of the outbreak, particularly for vulnerable populations such as the elderly, children, and those with pre-existing health conditions. Health authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant, seek medical attention if dengue symptoms develop, and adhere to preventive measures to curb the spread of the virus.
With the rainy season still ongoing, the SSJ is closely monitoring the situation and preparing for the possibility of more cases in the coming weeks. Residents and visitors to Puerto Vallarta and other affected areas are advised to take precautions, including using mosquito repellent, wearing long sleeves and pants, and ensuring their homes are protected with screens or mosquito nets.
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico - The Jalisco Health Secretariat (SSJ) has reported the first death attributed to dengue this year, alongside a significant increase in new infections. The dengue outbreak, which is transmitted by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, has become a growing concern as the state registers 453 new cases in the last epidemiological week, bringing the total to 2,612 cases for the year.
