This Aedes albopictus mosquito may carry illnesses like dengue and chikungunya. As temperatures change across the globe, the distribution of this species and its viruses will put massive swaths of the planet in danger. Picture by James Gathany/Facilities for Illness Management and Prevention
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico (AP) — Puerto Rico’s well being secretary declared an epidemic on Monday following a spike in dengue instances.
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The U.S. territory of three.2 million folks has reported at the very least 549 instances to this point this 12 months, in contrast with a complete of 1,293 instances for all of final 12 months. The vast majority of instances have been reported within the capital of San Juan.
Greater than 340 folks have been hospitalized for the mosquito-borne virus, in keeping with the island’s well being division.
Puerto Rico final declared a dengue epidemic in 2012.
Greater than 5 million dengue instances have been reported worldwide final 12 months, with practically 80% of them occurring within the Western Hemisphere, in accordance the World Well being Group. The area has reported some 3 million instances to this point this 12 months, with well being officers noting that greater rainfall together with humidity and warmth linked to local weather change have contributed to an increase in instances.
The virus could cause crushing complications, fever, vomiting, a rash and different signs. Whereas most contaminated folks do not get signs, extreme instances can result in plasma leakage and loss of life.
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This Aedes albopictus mosquito may carry illnesses like dengue and chikungunya. As temperatures change across the globe, the distribution of this species and its viruses will put massive swaths of the planet in danger. Picture by James Gathany/Facilities for Illness Management and Prevention