The number of Zika virus cases in the country increased by 20% from January to July 8. Notifications increased from 5,910 to 7,093 compared to the same period in 2022. The southeastern region saw the highest increase in cases, at 11.7%.
The Ministry of Health stated, “Data is preliminary and subject to change and that surveillance for arboviruses – which includes infections caused by Zika virus – is mandatory reporting, meaning that every suspected and/or confirmed case must be reported compulsorily. and inform the health services.
In April, as cases of dengue, Zika and chikungunya increased in Brazil, the federal government launched a national campaign to combat diseases transmitted by the same vector, the bite of the Aedes aegypti mosquito. On that occasion, the Ministry of Health activated the Arbovirus Emergency Operations Center (COE) and support measures were implemented in the 11 states with the highest number of cases and deaths of dengue and chikungunya. Other measures include an investment of R$84.3 million in the purchase of insecticides and larvicides, distribution of diagnostic kits and training of health professionals.
In June, the COE was deactivated after a decrease in the risk of arbovirus transmission was found in all states. The number of reported Zika virus cases decreased by 87% between April and July. “This decrease is due to committed vector control measures, actions promoted by the Emergency Health Operations Center, as well as climate changes that imply viral spread of dengue and chikungunya.
Therefore, considering the current scenario, as of Epidemic Week (SE) 19, the COE Arboviruses have been deactivated. However, the Ministry of Health will continue to monitor the behavior of arboviruses in Brazil throughout the year.”
symptoms
The most common symptoms of Zika are: headache, low fever, mild joint pain, red spots on the skin, and itchy and red eyes. Other, less common symptoms include body swelling, sore throat, coughing, and vomiting.
protection
The main way to avoid disease is to eliminate mosquito breeding sites, i.e. to avoid the accumulation of standing water in containers, plant pots and old tires; Install screens on windows and doors. Wear long clothes (pants and a blouse) or apply insect repellent to exposed areas of the body, and give preference to places with protective barriers and mosquito nets. (Brazil Agency)
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