By NewsDesk @infectiousdiseasenews
Health officials with the municipality of Serra in the state of Espírito Santo, Brazil are reporting a 17 times increase in dengue fever cases in 2019 compared to last year, according to a Folha Vitoria report (computer translated).
According to government data, there were 17,052 cases among the population of Serra, During the same period in 2018, 1,047 cases were reported.
Heavy rains that have hit much of Espírito Santo recently, prompting an alert to combat the Aedes aegypti mosquito across the state.
Due to the rain, some places may have accumulated standing water, which contributes to the proliferation of the mosquito.
Serra City Hall is calling Friday “D-day” to combat the mosquito and raise awareness. The government reminds the public beware of the containers that accumulate water, especially those that are outside the houses, such as empty bottles, lids, plant dishes, plastic bags, among others.
It is also necessary to keep the yards well swept, to brush the edges of the water and pet food containers, and to check that the water tanks are clean and sealed.
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