Guangdong Battles Dengue Fever Outbreak

Guangdong province in southern China is grappling with a surge in dengue fever cases. From September 9th to 15th, the province reported 775 cases, a 73-case increase from the previous week. The majority of these cases, 768, were locally acquired, while seven were imported.

Foshan, Guangzhou, Zhongshan, Jiangmen, Shenzhen, and Dongguan are the cities most affected by the outbreak. In August alone, Guangdong diagnosed 1,220 dengue fever patients, a significant jump from the 233 cases reported in July.

Experts attribute the rise in cases to the recent rainstorms in Guangzhou, which create ideal conditions for the breeding of Aedes mosquitoes, the primary vectors of dengue fever. Additionally, the ongoing dengue fever epidemic in Southeast Asia poses a high risk of imported transmission in southern China.

Dengue fever typically manifests with high fever, flu-like symptoms, headaches, rashes, lethargy, and joint and bone pain. In severe cases, it can develop into a potentially deadly hemorrhagic fever. Children, senior residents, and individuals with underlying chronic diseases are particularly vulnerable to contracting the disease.

The Guangdong Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention urges residents not to panic, as dengue fever is preventable and treatable. They also emphasize the importance of taking precautions during the upcoming National Day holidays, which begin on October 1st. These measures include mosquito control, using insect repellent, and seeking medical attention if symptoms develop.