Paraguay: The epidemiological scenario at the national level shows a progressive and sustained growth in reports of suspected dengue
Suspected reports are increasing and the risk of introduction of the DENV-3 serotype and the Oropouche virus into the country is latent, due to cases reported in the region, so it is essential to persist in actions to eliminate breeding sites and in timely consultation in the event of symptoms.
The epidemiological scenario at the national level shows a progressive and sustained growth in reports of suspected dengue, but with low circulation of cases. On this point, Dr. Andrea Ojeda, General Director of Health Surveillance, clarifies that, despite the increase in reports, there is still no significant viral circulation at the national level.
However, unprecedented outbreaks of dengue are already being reported at the regional level, with co-circulation of the four serotypes, so it is encouraged not to let down one's guard, to insist on the timely reporting of cases and to reinforce prevention and vector control actions.
Dr. Andrea Ojeda recommends taking precautions considering that it is the holiday season, which involves a significant movement of people within and outside the country, and taking into account the epidemiological situation in several countries in the region.
Therefore, if you plan to travel domestically or abroad during these holidays, do not forget to use repellent and a mosquito net.
It is not advisable to travel if you have fever, headaches, muscle aches or other symptoms. It is best to go to a doctor's office to avoid complications and do not self-medicate.
If you have any symptoms or discomfort upon returning from your trip, go immediately to the nearest health service and mention your travel history, taking into account the risk of introducing oropouche and DENV-3, a serotype circulating in Brazil and other countries in the region.
If you have dengue fever, you should rest under a mosquito net, following your doctor's instructions.
Epidemiological situation
So far, Concepción and Alto Paraguay are the departments that have registered active outbreaks of the disease, with a predominance of the DENV-2 serotype, which was the predominant one in the previous epidemic. In Alto Paraguay, the outbreak is located in Puerto Casado, where 10 cases were recorded in the last three weeks; and in Concepción, in the district of San Lázaro, 28 cases were recorded.
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In the last three weeks of 2024 (EW) 50, 51 and 52, a total of 72 cases with a diagnosis of dengue were identified, and an average of 845 suspected cases were reported per week, excluding those ruled out, according to the weekly report of Health Surveillance. Also, one hospitalized person associated with the virus was reported in this period, corresponding to the 5 to 14 year age group. No deaths were confirmed in these last three weeks.
According to partial data, 9 regions in the country have shown an increase in notifications in recent weeks: Asuncion, Central, Conception, President Hayes, Alto Paraguay, San Pedro, Caazapá, Caaguazú and Amambay.
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The specialist stresses to citizens the importance of continuing vector control measures in order to reduce the proliferation of mosquitoes and contact with them.
Among the most effective measures are:
• Elimination of potential breeding sites in homes, workplaces and recreational sites, especially considering that the rainy season is approaching with high temperatures.
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• Discard accumulated water, turn over bottles and containers, change and clean the animals' water bowls daily, and chlorinate swimming pools to prevent mosquitoes from breeding in homes.
• We also remind you to use protective barriers (use of repellent and mosquito nets) to prevent mosquito bites.