Paraguay: Elevated chikungunya activity reported in Paraguay through February /update 2

Event

Health authorities continue to report elevated chikungunya activity in Paraguay with an additional 12,400 cases reported nationwide Jan. 21-Feb. 8. This brings the total confirmed case count to more than 18,000 cases Jan. 1-Feb. 8. This is compared to 310 cases in 2021. The most affected area is the Central Department, followed by Asuncion. Elevated disease activity has also been reported in Alto Paraguay, Concepcion, Cordillera, Paraguari, and Presidente Hayes. Disease activity is likely to worsen due to increasing temperatures in the summer. The Ministry of Health urges individuals to conduct daily inspections of the patio and interior of their homes, especially after it rains, and to eliminate any unused objects that accumulate water. This represents the most complete information available as of Feb. 20.

Context

The risk of chikungunya in Paraguay is typically highest from November to March. Chikungunya is transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito. Symptoms of chikungunya include fever, joint pain, muscle pain, headache, and rash. Symptoms typically appear 3-7 days after being bitten but can develop up to 12 days after exposure. Most people recover within a week; however, joint pain can sometimes persist for months.

Advice

Avoid mosquito bites and remove standing water to reduce the number of biting mosquitoes. Seek medical attention if symptoms develop within two weeks of being in affected areas.