Dengue strain on rise in the Caribbean, PAHO warns

The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) is warning that a dengue strain, the DENV-3 serotype, is on the rise in the Caribbean which could lead to a potential increase in cases of the disease.

It is urging countries in the region to strengthen their surveillance, early diagnosis, and clinical management of dengue.
“Dengue, transmitted by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, has four serotypes: DENV-1, DENV-2, DENV-3, and DENV-4,” PAHO explained in a statement this week. “Immunity against one serotype only provides lifelong protection against that specific serotype, meaning that subsequent infections with other serotypes can increase the risk of severe forms of the disease.”

It said the appearance and rise of the DENV-3 serotype, which was not previously predominant in the region, can lead to a surge in cases due to greater population susceptibility.

“The re-emergence of DENV-3, after a prolonged absence in certain areas of the region, increases the vulnerability of populations that have not been previously exposed to this serotype,” the organization said.

The organization has offered several recommendations as the region faces health threats from the new strain.
“PAHO recommends that countries strengthen vector control measures, enhance diagnostic capacity within healthcare systems, and ensure early and adequate treatment for patients, to prevent severe complications,” it said. “Public education campaigns to reduce exposure to mosquito vectors and eliminate breeding grounds are also essential.”

Complicating the situation further, PAHO has said that “TAK-003 dengue vaccine, used in some countries in the region, has shown lower protection against DENV-3, especially in children without a history of infection.”

“This highlights the need to ensure safe vaccination and maintain continuous monitoring of adverse events potentially attributable to the vaccination,” it said.

PAHO stated the situation is being closely monitored to observe the “evolution of DENV-3 circulation along with the other serotypes, and will continue supporting countries in implementing effective control and response measures to potential outbreaks.”

“It is critical that healthcare systems are prepared to manage the expected increase in cases and mitigate the risk of severe complications associated with this disease,” the organization said.

Dengue causes a severe flu-like illness. It may look like other diseases such as the flu or malaria. The illness usually lasts three to seven days.

Symptoms may include:

Sudden high fever
Severe headaches
Pain behind the eyes
Joint and muscle pain
Nausea
Vomiting
Swollen glands
Rash that appears three to four days after the fever starts