With the first quarter numbers coming in, Brazil is having one of the worst Dengue outbreaks they have seen in recent years. With 163 deaths and 1588 serious cases reported for the first quarter of 2011 alone Brazil is struggling to get a handle on their Dengue epidemic. Of the four types of Dengue, types 1, 2, and 4 are in high prevalence in Rio de Janeiro specifically. They have reason to believe the mosquito carrying type 4 has been introduced from their neighboring country of Venezuela which is also suffering from high rates of Dengue cases this year. And with 1383 new cases in Fortaleza, located on the North Eastern coast of Brazil the last 2 weeks they have little reason to think the disease is slowing down.
While there is no way to completely protect yourself from Dengue there are a few things to help prevent mosquito bites:
• Use insect repellant with DEET, picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus
• Apply insect repellant every 1 to 2 hours
• And wear loose, long-sleeved shirts and long pants
If any of the following symptoms arise look for testing and treatment immediately to prevent life threatening situations:
• Fever
• Severe headache
• Pain behind the eyes
• Joint and muscle pain
• Rash
• Nausea/vomiting
• Hemorrhagic manifestations
CTK Biotech is dedicated to early detection of all 4 types of Dengue. CLICK HERE to see our tests.