Puerto Rico has declared a public health emergency as the number of dengue fever cases continues to rise.
So far this year, there have been 549 cases reported with the plurality occurring in San Juan, according to the island's health department. There has been a 140% increase this year in cases from Jan. 1 to March 21, compared to the same period last year, the department said.
"This year, dengue cases have exceeded historical figures," Dr. Carlos Mellado López, the secretary of the Puerto Rico Department of Health, said in a statement. "The teams have been working on the integrated plan for prevention and control in response to arbovirus and we are going to expand the implemented response. It is important to note that the increase in cases has not only been reflected in Puerto Rico, but we have seen it throughout the region of the Americas."
The public health emergency order will remain in place for 90 days.
The department says its response will include early detection, epidemiological surveillance and providing educational material on dengue. Dr. Melissa Marzán, an epidemiologist with the health department, also emphasized the importance of collaboration with municipalities.
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