Dengue fever is rapidly escalating across the Caribbean and Americas, with 12.6 million suspected cases reported this year, nearly three times last year's figures, according to health officials. The Pan American Health Organization notes a dramatic increase in deaths, surpassing 7,700, a figure more than triple the death toll of 2023. This surge is attributed to climate change factors, such as warmer temperatures and increased flooding, which have expanded mosquito habitats.
Brazil leads with over 10 million cases, followed by Argentina and Mexico, while Guyana records the highest in the Caribbean. The virus has expanded to new regions, including parts of the United States such as California, Florida, and Texas. Dengue serotype 3 has become predominant for the first time in a decade in Mexico, Central America, and parts of the Caribbean. Health experts highlight that while many infected individuals show minor symptoms, severe cases can lead to life-threatening complications.
Puerto Rico declared an epidemic by March, with cases quadrupling from last year. Efforts to control the outbreak include public advisories to eliminate stagnant water serving as mosquito breeding sites, while some countries impose fines on properties fostering mosquito habitats. Although dengue vaccines are available in Peru, Brazil, and Argentina, they are primarily effective for those previously infected. Prevention remains the recommended strategy, as emphasized by PAHO advisor Thais dos Santos, stating, "If there's no mosquito, there's no dengue." (This story was generated by Newser's AI chatbot. Source: the AP)
,
uBlock 
,
and
Ghostery 
)
