Press Releases

Dengue Warning for Honduras

CONTACT: +o11 (504) 238-5114, usahonduras@state.gov

TEGUCIGALPA/July 14, 2010/US State Department/ -- The US Embassy in Honduras informs American citizens residing in or visiting Honduras that the Honduran Ministry of Health has recorded over 17,620 cases of classic dengue and 594 of the hemorrhagic type. The disease has already claimed 21 lives in the country this year, 5 more cases are under investigation. The government reported that 85% of the hemorrhagic dengue cases were reported in the capital of Tegucigalpa. The government has initiated a massive fumigation effort in addition to public education outreach in order to contain the epidemic.

Dengue fever is caused by a virus, which is transmitted by the bite of an infected mosquito. Dengue cannot be spread directly from person to person. There is no vaccine to protect against infection and no treatment to stop an infection.

What are the classic symptoms of dengue?
The principle symptoms of classic dengue fever are: high fever (starting 3-14 days after bite and lasting less than 7 days); severe headache (especially behind the eyes); joint and muscle pain (especially in the lower back); bone pain (earning the name “break-bone fever”); and rash and mild bleeding (e.g., nose or gums bleed, easy bruising). Dengue hemorrhagic fever is characterized by symptoms consistent with classic dengue, however, when the fever declines, symptoms including persistent vomiting, severe abdominal pain, and difficulty breathing may develop. More severe symptoms may follow.

What is the treatment for dengue?
There is no medication for treatment of dengue infection. Persons who think they have dengue should use pain relievers with acetaminophen and avoid those containing any non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID), such as aspirin.

They should also rest, drink plenty of fluids, and consult a physician. If they feel worse (e.g., develop vomiting and severe abdominal pain) in the first 24 hours after the fever declines, they should go immediately to the hospital for evaluation.

What can be done to reduce the risk of acquiring dengue?
Persons should properly apply mosquito repellent containing 20% to 30% DEET. The American Academy of Pediatrics approves the use of repellents with up to 30% DEET on children over 2 months. If sunscreen is needed, apply before insect repellent. Persons should wear long sleeves and long pants for best coverage when outdoors. In addition, buildings should have window and door screens. The best defense against dengue is to eliminate the places where the mosquitoes lay their eggs, primarily artificial containers that hold water. Items that collect rainwater or are used to store water should be covered and properly discarded.