The government of Peru has declared a state of emergency in response to a sharp increase in deaths from dengue fever early in the year.
Here's the situation: According to Reuters, Peru's President Dina Boluarte has approved "extraordinary economic measures" to combat the dengue epidemic, which has been sweeping through the Americas since the start of 2024. The country's health ministry reported that as of April 11, dengue was the official cause of death for 117 people, compared to just 33 at the same time last year. Infections have also tripled compared to 2023, with 135,000 cases reported.
"We are in a critical situation in Latin America," said Augusto Tarazona, an epidemiologist at the University of Lima, noting that Peru's infection and mortality rates are higher than those of Argentina and Brazil. Tarazona explained to Reuters that dengue infections are now being detected in areas where they were not previously seen.
The disease is primarily transmitted by the Aedes Aegypti mosquito, which, like other disease-carrying mosquitoes, has expanded its range due to rising temperatures caused by human activities such as the burning of fossil fuels.
"The mosquito has been adapting to climate change and reproducing at a faster rate than before," Tarazona stated. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there was a 400% increase in dengue infections from 2000 to 2013. Dengue, also known as "break-bone fever," can cause fever, rash, headache, and nausea, and can be more severe upon reinfection, leading to symptoms such as bleeding gums or nose, weakness, and severe abdominal pain.
What can be done about this epidemic? Lima, Peru, officials have initiated fumigation efforts in impoverished neighborhoods heavily impacted by dengue, as reported by Reuters. Meanwhile, in Brazil, which is also experiencing a surge in cases, mosquitoes infected with bacteria are being used to combat the outbreak.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends the dengue vaccine only for those who have previously had an infection. However, there are preventive measures individuals can take, such as using insect repellent, ensuring windows and doors have screens, and wearing clothing that covers arms and legs, according to the WHO.