Epidemics of Dengue and Reemergence of Chikungunya in Latin America

Abstract

In recent years, Latin America has faced significant challenges due to the epidemics of dengue, the reemergence of chikungunya, and other arboviral diseases. Arboviruses pose a serious threat to public health and have far-reaching socio-economic impacts across the region. In dengue, Latin America experiences cyclical outbreaks of dengue, often exacerbated by factors such as urbanisation, population growth, inadequate sanitation, and climate change. However, in 2023-2024, the region is experiencing the worst and largest epidemics, with particular impact in Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay, and Colombia, among others. Concurrently, in the last few years, the re-emergence of the chikungunya virus in Latin America has added to the burden of mosquito-borne diseases. The first significant epidemic was during 2013-2015 in Colombia, Venezuela, Brazil, and other countries. Now, different countries in the South Cone, such as Argentina, Bolivia, Paraguay and Uruguay, also experience new outbreaks. Several factors have contributed to its resurgence including increased international travel and trade, allowing the virus to spread to new regions; urbanisation and inadequate sanitation, creating conducive environments for mosquito breeding; and climate change, which affects the distribution and behaviour of Aedes. Additionally, the lack of immunity in populations previously unexposed to the virus makes them vulnerable to outbreaks. The impact of such coepidemics extends beyond individual health to affect healthcare systems, economies, and social well-being. Healthcare resources are strained by the influx of patients seeking treatment for dengue and chikungunya-related complications and even chronic disease, leading to overcrowded hospitals and overwhelmed medical personnel. The economic burden is substantial, with costs associated with healthcare, vector control measures, and productivity losses due to illness and disability. Efforts to control and prevent dengue and chikungunya in Latin America require a multi-faceted approach that includes vector control, public health interventions, community engagement, and research into vaccines and treatments. Vector control strategies aim to reduce mosquito populations through measures such as insecticide spraying, larval source reduction, and community education on eliminating breeding sites. Public health initiatives focus on early detection, surveillance, and timely management of cases to prevent severe outcomes and minimise transmission. Community engagement plays a pivotal role in sustainable vector control efforts. It involves educating communities about the significance of personal protection measures, such as using insect repellents and wearing long sleeves and pants, and the importance of eliminating stagnant water sources where mosquitoes breed. Ongoing research into vaccines and treatments for these diseases shows promising developments, offering hope for future prevention and control efforts. In conclusion, the dengue epidemics and reemergence of chikungunya in Latin America present complex challenges that demand immediate and coordinated action at local, national, and international levels.