Given the cyclical patterns of the illness, the National Institutes of Health’s Centre for Disease Control (CDC) has published an advise targeted at avoiding and managing dengue fever.
According to the NIH, the advisory’s goal is to increase awareness among healthcare professionals for both people and animals in order to improve readiness and preventive actions prior to the dengue fever’s peak season.
Aedes mosquitoes, which include Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus, are responsible for spreading the virus that causes dengue disease. It is widespread throughout Pakistan, where there is evidence of numerous serotypes circulating.
Alarming numbers were recorded in previous years despite scant observation. A total of 52,929 cases and 224 fatalities were reported in 2021, and 79,007 confirmed cases and 149 fatalities were reported in 2022.
Through the IDSR reporting system, Pakistan has provided information regarding 3,019 suspected cases and eight fatalities since January 2023. To stop the spread of dengue fever, it is essential to put an emphasis on prevention, keep an eye out for cases, and be ready to respond.
In order to manage potential issues throughout the dengue season effectively, this guidance intends to help healthcare authorities and professionals. Hospitals are asked to expand their patient management capabilities, set up rapid reaction plans, and keep in constant contact with the appropriate departments and stakeholders.
The advisory lists preventative measures to ward off dengue fever, including personal protection techniques like donning long sleeves, using mosquito-repellent lotions and sprays, using mosquito-repellent coils, using bed nets when sleeping outside, and installing mesh screens on windows.
