As the world battles the unseen warriors of viruses and infections, a silent but deadly adversary has again reared its head, affecting millions globally. Dengue fever, the mosquito-borne viral illness known to mankind for centuries, has sprung up with unanticipated ferocity in recent months, causing panic in health sectors worldwide.
The latest estimates from the World Health Organization (WHO) send shivers down the spine, indicating that an alarming 50% of the global populace is at risk of falling prey to dengue. The impending menace looms even more significant when seen in light of the prediction that we might witness an unprecedented spike in dengue cases worldwide.
This silent pandemic seems to be throwing its worst at us, with global health and security giant International SOS reporting a concerning 15% rise in dengue-related information and assistance requests in the initial half of 2023. This is in stark contrast to the numbers seen in 2022.
Unfortunately, the Americas, home to scenic landscapes and vibrant cultures, is also the epicentre of this dengue resurgence. With a startling count of almost three million infections in just the first seven months of 2023, countries like Brazil and Peru grapple with the most severe dengue outbreaks in their national histories.
Asia isn’t untouched. Bangladesh is in a dengue storm due to extended transmission seasons triggered by ample rainfall and flooding.
Dengue Crisis in Americas and Bangladesh
The dengue shadow is creeping into Europe as well. A continent unaccustomed to the threat, Europe’s rising temperatures, a direct outcome of climate change, have facilitated the movement of the dengue mosquito into previously unaffected territories.
Dr. Irene Lai, the Group Medical Director at International SOS, emphasizes the critical role of prevention and awareness. She states, “The key to reducing dengue’s global footprint lies in awareness. While a significant percentage might experience mild symptoms, there are unfortunate souls who could be critically ill, needing intensive care. Repeat dengue infections are particularly nasty. The best defensive strategy against dengue is simple – stay away from mosquito bites. We also have vaccines available, which are a boon, especially for those who have had a dengue history and are residing in dengue hotspots.”
For companies and organizations, the game plan should be clear. Rigorous risk evaluations of operational and employee travel locations are imperative. This should be supplemented with mosquito control initiatives, constant site checks, extensive employee education campaigns, and ensuring health assessments are in place for mobile workforces.
International SOS Prevention Guide
International SOS offers a critical five-point agenda for companies to armour their employees against dengue:
- Pre-Travel Consultation: Equip employees with exhaustive pre-journey health advice, spotlighting dengue dangers, preventive steps, and healthcare options at their target location.
- Warding off Mosquito Bites: Advocate for using insect repellents, wearing safeguarding attire, and ensuring stay in mosquito-resistant accommodations.
- Environmental Vigilance: For firms in dengue red zones, integrated mosquito control steps and routine site checks are crucial.
- Educating the Workforce: Comprehensive training sessions and resources to enhance employee awareness about dengue’s risks and prevention.
- Medical Infrastructure: Guarantee swift medical care access and essential resources to counter dengue and halt its progression to lethal variants.
Written by: My Thanh Pham
