Brazil surpassed the mark of 2,000 deaths from dengue in 2024. According to data from the Ministry of Health, as of this Wednesday (1st), 2,073 deaths from the disease had been recorded, while another 2,291 are under investigation. This is the highest number since the beginning of the historical series, in 2000, surpassing the record of 2023 – 1,094 deaths.
In relation to probable cases of dengue, the number now reaches 4,176,810 – which means that the incidence rate of the disease, for every 100 thousand inhabitants, is 2056.9. The state of Minas Gerais continues to lead the number of infections, with 1,240,171 thousand records. Next come São Paulo (1,041,180) and Paraná (426,684).
To date, 407 municipal and 11 state emergency decrees have been published due to dengue, allowing the adoption of administrative measures to contain the disease, such as the acquisition of inputs and materials. São Paulo was the most recent state to declare a public health emergency due to dengue.
Despite the high number of cases, the Health Surveillance Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Ethel Maciel, reported that most of Brazil is in a less aggressive scenario in terms of dengue incidence. In total, 21 states and the Federal District show a downward or stable trend, while five still show an increase. Are they:
- Ceará;
- Mato Grosso;
- For;
- Sergipe;
- Tocantins.
More than 500 municipalities in 16 states and the Federal District have already started vaccinating against dengue, with the first applications targeting children aged 10 and 14. Last week, the Ministry of Health announced the temporary expansion of the vaccination audience, covering people between six and 16 years old. The objective is to avoid expiring doses.
While vaccination is not available for all age groups, the folder reinforces that control of the Aedes aegypti vector is the main method for preventing and controlling dengue fever and other urban arboviruses, such as chikungunya and zika. This can be done both through integrated vector management and through personal prevention within households.
Here’s how to protect yourself:
- Replace the water in the plant pot dishes with sand;
- Leave the water tank covered;
- Keep swimming pools clean;
- Remove from the environment all material that can accumulate water, such as tires and bottles;
- Unclog gutters, slabs and drains;
- Wash the edges of containers that accumulate water with soap and a brush and throw the larvae onto the earth or dry ground;
- Store buckets and bottles with the mouth facing down;
- Use window screens in known transmission areas.
Should I use repellent?
The answer is yes. According to the Ministry of Health, use is recommended, above all, in areas of known dengue transmission. The product should be applied to exposed areas of the body, such as arms, legs and feet. Repellents for use in the environment, such as tablets and electrical devices, are also recommended, as they keep mosquitoes away.
