Large number of dengue fever cases in Mexico and Central America

The following countries are reporting cases and outbreaks of dengue fever:

El Salvador - more than 12,000 cases

Guatemala - almost 11,000 cases with 4 deaths

Honduras - slightly more than 30,000 cases

Mexico - more than 52,000 cases with 10 deaths

• Baja California Sur - the most affected municipalities include Los Cabos, La Paz, Comondu, Mulege, Loreto.
• Jalisco - the most affected municipalities include Puerto Vallarta, San Gabriel, Guadalajara, Zapopan, Tlaquepaque.
• Tamaulipas - Matamoros is an affected municipality.

Nicaragua - approximately 15,000 cases; the most affected municipalities include Managua, Nueva Segovia, Matagalpa, Chinandega, Esteli, Caribe Sur Autonomous Region.

Panama - more than 1,400 cases

Advice

All travellers to areas where the dengue fever virus is active can reduce their risk of exposure by taking all necessary precautions to avoid mosquito bites. Many persons with dengue fever do not seek medical care and are not reported to health authorities. There may be many more cases in the community than the reports indicate.