Brazil State Hit By Record Number Of Dengue Fever Cases

More than 200,000 cases of dengue fever have been reported in São Paulo state since the start of the year, according to official figures released Monday.



In the country's most populous state, the Center of Epidemiological Surveillance said 222,044 cases were recorded to April 22 -- the most up-to-date figures available -- and that at least 125 deaths from dengue fever had been confirmed.



Another 90 deaths in which dengue fever is suspected are still being verified, the Folha de S.Paulo newspaper reported.



The level of infection is above the threshold that the World Health Organization defines as "epidemic" -- set at 300 cases per 100,000 inhabitants.



Above-average temperatures and torrential rain were seen during this year's summer season, which typically provoke higher numbers of mosquitoes and a spike in dengue cases between February and April.



 A later start to the warmer temperatures this year has delayed this increase into late April and is expected to continue into May. But now cooler conditions are now beginning to take hold, as Brazil's austral winter approaches, local authorities are hoping to see the number of new cases decrease in the near future.



Dengue is a viral infection spread by Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, which thrive in Brazil's climate. The disease is characterized by pains, for example to the joints and back of the eyes, and a severe fever. It can be fatal if the more serious hemorrhagic form develops.



Government posters and TV advertisements warning of the disease can be seen widely across the city, calling on citizens to rid their homes of accumulations of stagnant water and to take steps to prevent mosquito bites.



Given the yearly dengue outbreaks seen in the country, Brazil is now developing a combined vaccine that protects against the four strains of the virus found in the country. 



The University of São Paulo is currently completing tests of the vaccine based on an incomplete form of the virus in 13,000. Preliminary results have been positive.



The government is looking to expedite the approval process for the vaccine, and is hopeful it can be made available in 2016 or early 2017.



Brazil is now also facing the spread of Chikungunya -- a viral disease similar to and often confused with dengue fever. 



www.aa.com.tr/en - Sao Paulo