by Peru has taken urgent action by declaring a health emergency in a majority of its provinces as the country sees a rapid increase in dengue cases. The surge in cases comes amidst higher temperatures attributed to the El Nino weather pattern.
The Ministry of Health in Peru reported that the number of dengue cases recorded in the first seven weeks of this year has doubled compared to the same period last year, with over 31,000 cases reported. Health Minister Cesar Vásquez expressed concern over the situation, stating that it is becoming challenging to manage.
The declared health emergency will facilitate quicker allocation of funds to the affected regions and expedite the deployment of medical personnel. The emergency covers 20 out of the country’s 24 provinces, including areas surrounding the capital city, Lima.
Last year, Peru faced a dengue epidemic that strained its public health system as numerous individuals sought treatment in emergency facilities. Dengue, transmitted by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, thrives in hot and humid environments.
While many dengue cases exhibit mild symptoms, the disease can also lead to severe complications such as intense headaches, high fevers, and muscle pains. Tragically, the dengue outbreak in Peru last year claimed the lives of 18 individuals, and in the initial two months of this year, 32 Peruvians have succumbed to the virus.
In a related development, the World Health Organization highlighted the connection between Peru’s 2023 dengue epidemic and the favorable conditions for mosquito breeding due to increased rainfall and temperatures, particularly in the northern regions of the country.
The situation in Peru underscores the critical need for proactive measures to control the spread of dengue and protect public health. Authorities are working diligently to address the emergency and safeguard the well-being of the population in the face of this escalating health crisis.
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1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research.
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it.
