2024-11-15 04:38:00
Illustration. Mosquitoes in an entomology laboratory in Fort-de-France, Martinique, in September 2010. PATRICE COPPEE / AFP
Guadeloupe has passed “in epidemic phase for dengue fever” with a rare serotype, which could cause “a high number of cases”according to an official press release, released Thursday, November 14 in the evening, calling for everything possible to “minimize” the impact of the disease.
Meeting during the day, the management committee chaired by the regional prefect took action “the transition to the epidemic phase for dengue”specifies this joint press release from the prefecture, the Association of Mayors of Guadeloupe and the regional health agency of Guadeloupe and the Northern Islands.
The authorities are launching “a call for the mobilization of all stakeholders involved” in the fight “to try to minimize the impact of this disease” in the coming weeks.
This year, “a serotype of the dengue virus which has circulated little over the last twenty years”DENV3, makes the authorities fear “serious risks” et “a high number of cases” if “resolute control or prevention actions are not implemented”according to the press release.
Read also | Article reserved for our subscribers France threatened by a dengue epidemic
Read later
Fight against stagnant water
Among 62 samples analyzed between the end of September and mid-October, “97% are DENV3”according to the latest Public Health France bulletin.
The seasonal threshold for clinical cases (80 weekly cases) is largely exceeded. At the end of October, it was estimated at 540 in community medicine, more than double than in September.
At the hospital, Public Health France noted in October “on average 40 weekly visits to the emergency room for suspected dengue fever, compared to 25 in September”.
The joint statement from the authorities recalled that it was « primordial » to fight against stagnant water, which allows the larvae of the disease vector, the mosquito, to develop. These stagnant waters are often “located around or in homes” and may have been “fueled by recent heavy rains”insists the press release.
Read also | Article reserved for our subscribers Dengue: record cases imported into France in an explosive epidemic context
Read later
Wearing covering and loose clothing is recommended
The authorities also recommend “wearing covering and loose clothing”the use of“an approved repellent product” and the use of pre-treated mosquito nets.
Newsletter
“Human warmth”
How to face the climate challenge? Every week, our best articles on the subject
Register
The territory is also facing the emergence of a new type of mosquito “highly competent to transmit all arboviruses (dengue, chikungunya, Zika)”according to a press release from the community and the ARS, published at the end of October. These larvaeAedes albopictus were spotted for the first time in the Lorient district, in Saint-Barthélemy, in the north of Guadeloupe, it was specified.
Dengue fever, which can cause high fever, body aches and fatigue, is a potentially fatal infectious disease.
Reuse this content
1731667254
#Dengue #epidemic #declared #Guadeloupe
What are the symptoms of dengue fever that residents should look out for during the current outbreak?
**Interview with Dr. Marie-Claude Dupont, Epidemiologist and Public Health Expert**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Dupont. With Guadeloupe recently declaring an epidemic phase for dengue fever due to the DENV3 serotype, can you explain what this means for the local population?
**Dr. Dupont:** Thank you for having me. The declaration of an epidemic phase indicates a significant increase in dengue cases, particularly concerning given that 97% of analyzed samples are of the DENV3 serotype, which has been relatively rare over the past two decades. This virus can lead to a high number of cases, and unfortunately, some may develop severe symptoms, which is why vigilance is crucial.
**Editor:** What specific actions are being taken by health authorities to address this health crisis?
**Dr. Dupont:** The authorities are calling for a collective mobilization of stakeholders, including local government, public health agencies, and community organizations. The focus is on implementing immediate preventive measures such as reducing stagnant water sources, which are breeding grounds for mosquitoes, and raising public awareness about personal protection.
**Editor:** We’ve seen a sharp increase in clinical cases, more than double from September to October. What should residents be especially mindful of during this time?
**Dr. Dupont:** Residents should be vigilant for symptoms of dengue, which include high fever, severe headaches, pain behind the eyes, and joint and muscle pain. Additionally, taking steps to minimize mosquito bites—like using insect repellent and wearing protective clothing—can significantly reduce transmission. It’s important for anyone experiencing symptoms to seek medical attention promptly.
**Editor:** What can you tell us about the challenges posed by the DENV3 serotype specifically?
**Dr. Dupont:** DENV3 is particularly concerning because the population may have low levels of immunity due to its infrequency in recent years. This means that many people may be more susceptible to infection, which can lead to a rapid increase in cases if comprehensive control measures aren’t put in place.
**Editor:** As an expert in public health, what is your message to the residents of Guadeloupe in light of this epidemic phase?
**Dr. Dupont:** My message is one of caution and collaboration. It’s essential for residents to take personal preventive measures and work together with local health officials to mitigate the spread of dengue. Community action can make a considerable difference in controlling this outbreak.