0
0
Sao Paulo, Feb 20 – The Brazilian state of Sao Paulo has declared a health emergency as dengue cases surge, allowing authorities to accelerate financial and medical response efforts to combat the mosquito-borne disease.
Sao Paulo Health Secretary Eleuses Paiva announced the emergency measure on Wednesday during a press conference, citing an anticipated peak in cases by April. The declaration is aimed at expediting the procurement of medical supplies and facilitating the treatment of those infected, according to a report by Xinhua news agency.
“The challenge is enormous… The only way to reduce dengue transmission is to eliminate mosquito breeding grounds. It’s like a war — we need a strategy,” Paiva emphasized.
The state, home to 46 million residents, accounts for 58% of Brazil’s dengue cases, according to the Health Ministry. So far, Sao Paulo has reported 124,038 confirmed cases and 113 deaths, with an additional 82,908 cases and 233 deaths under investigation.
In response to the crisis, Brazil’s Health Ministry authorized states on Friday to expand dengue vaccinations if doses are nearing expiration. Additionally, 21 cities within Sao Paulo have declared a state of emergency due to the alarming rise in cases.
During the first two epidemiological weeks of 2025, the state registered 18,100 probable cases of dengue, with 4,340 confirmed and others under investigation. In the first week alone, between December 29, 2024, and January 4, 2025, 7,201 probable cases were reported, reflecting a 9.45% increase compared to the same period last year.
The emergency decree grants municipalities the authority to implement urgent measures to combat the outbreak and secure additional resources. On January 9, the Ministry of Health established the Health Emergency Operations Center (COE) for Dengue and other Arboviruses in Sao Paulo. The initiative aims to enhance epidemiological monitoring, laboratory research, healthcare surveillance, and vector control.
Authorities are urging residents to take preventive measures, such as eliminating standing water where mosquitoes breed and seeking medical attention at the first signs of dengue symptoms, which include high fever, severe headaches, muscle and joint pain, and skin rashes.
Disclaimer: This article is based on available reports as of February 20, 2025. Readers are encouraged to refer to official health sources for real-time updates and guidance on dengue prevention and treatment.
