Argentina logs severe dengue cases compared to previous years

So far this year, Argentina has reported over 527,000 dengue cases, marking an increase of 3.2 times compared to the previous year, although the numbers have started to decline, according to a statement from the Health Ministry on Sunday.

Health authorities have confirmed 527,517 cases

During the initial 28 weeks of this year, health authorities have confirmed 527,517 cases, which represent 97 percent of the entire season’s cases since the start in epidemiological week 31 of 2023, the latest National Epidemiological Bulletin from the ministry indicates.

The central region of the country witnessed the most cases, contributing to 60 percent of the overall count, while the northwest recorded 24.9 percent and the northeast 13 percent of the cases.

Dengue, a break-bone fever

The report also noted that the disease’s incidence rate has decreased over the past 14 weeks, currently standing at 1,157 cases per 100,000 people.

Dengue, a potentially deadly mosquito-transmitted disease, manifests through symptoms such as high fever, headache, vomiting, skin rash, and severe muscle and joint pains—earning it the nickname “break-bone” fever.

Deaths in Argentina

In more severe instances, it can escalate to hemorrhagic fever, causing bleeding that can be fatal. To date, dengue has caused 401 deaths this year in Argentina.