Puerto Vallarta, Mexico – Mexico is currently grappling with one of the most severe dengue outbreaks in its history, experiencing a staggering 381.5% increase in cases compared to the previous year. As of June 23, 2024, the Ministry of Health has reported 18,631 dengue cases, a significant rise from the 3,869 cases recorded during the same period in 2023. Tragically, the outbreak has claimed 26 lives so far this year.
The states of Guerrero, Tabasco, Veracruz, Michoacán, and Chiapas have been hit the hardest, accounting for 57% of all confirmed cases. Guerrero, in particular, leads with 3,652 reported cases and eight fatalities. Dr. Sofía Sánchez Piña, a researcher at the UNAM School of Nursing, highlighted that the aftermath of Hurricane Otis in 2023 exacerbated the situation in Guerrero, contributing to the surge in cases.
Breakdown of Dengue Cases
Dengue is categorized into three types:
- Non-Severe Dengue: 9,619 cases. Symptoms include high fever, nausea, vomiting, skin rashes, severe headache, and pain behind the eyes, joints, and muscles.
- Dengue with Warning Signs: 8,400 cases. Complications such as mucosal bleeding, severe abdominal pain, and persistent vomiting are noted.
- Severe Dengue: 612 cases. The most critical form, potentially fatal, characterized by severe bleeding, respiratory difficulty, fluid accumulation, and damage to vital organs.
Young people, particularly those aged 10 to 14, are the most affected. Women represent 54% of the cases, while men account for 46%. Dr. Sánchez Piña warns that if the current trend follows last year’s pattern, Mexico could see a further increase in cases over the next nine weeks, with the peak expected in mid-August.
Several factors contribute to the increase in dengue cases, including climate change, urbanization, and inadequate waste management. “The extreme heat has led people to open their windows and wear light clothing, increasing exposure to mosquitoes,” says Dr. Sánchez Piña. She also emphasizes the role of community hygiene in controlling the spread, urging people to keep their environments clean and free of stagnant water where mosquitoes breed.
Efforts to combat dengue include government-led fumigation and the application of larvicides. However, resistance to chemicals has become a challenge. Dr. Sánchez Piña advocates for additional protective measures, such as using mosquito nets and natural repellents like citronella, basil, and lemon tea.
Timely recognition and treatment of dengue are crucial. Symptoms include high fever, severe joint pain (often described as “bone pain”), and rashes. Dr. Sánchez Piña advises anyone experiencing these symptoms to seek medical attention promptly, as early intervention can prevent complications.
The dengue crisis in Mexico highlights the urgent need for coordinated efforts between authorities and citizens to mitigate the outbreak. Through improved sanitation, public awareness, and proactive measures, the spread of this debilitating disease can be controlled.
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico - Mexico is currently grappling with one of the most severe dengue outbreaks in its history, experiencing a staggering 381.5% increase in cases compared to the previous year. As of June 23, 2024, the Ministry of Health has reported 18,631 dengue cases, a significant rise from the 3,869 cases recorded during the same period in 2023. Tragically, the outbreak has claimed 26 lives so far this year.
