One seems to be changing, but is still beautiful and present. The other is gaining momentum. Watch out for dengue and flu epidemics, both at work in Guadeloupe!
In Guadeloupe, while the dengue epidemic is easing, while remaining at a worrying level, the circulation of the influenza virus is intensifying. The latter is the cause of an increasing number of visits to hospital emergencies.
Both outbreaks may have similar symptoms. So be careful; It is important to consult your doctor to identify which one concerns you. On the other hand, health authorities remind you that you should not go to the emergency room; the actors of the regulation service (at number 15) are there to advise you, with the aim of avoiding congestion in this key service of the University Hospital of Guadeloupe (CHUG).
Dengue fever has already caused one death and left six seriously ill in the archipelago.
This virus can be harmful to people who have underlying health problems, with chronic pathologies (diabetes, cardiovascular problems, immunocompromised, etc.); they must protect themselves all the more.
It is a new epidemic which began around mid-November 2024 and it is an epidemic with a type 3 virus, a serotype 3. So it is not the same virus as the previous epidemics which hit the archipelago . And, therefore, it is important to know, the population is not protected against this virus, the population is not immune. In approximately 5% of cases, dengue fever can become complicated and lead to serious forms.
Professor Antoine Chéret, infectious disease specialist
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During the week of December 2 to 8, 2024, around 530 cases were recorded; a weekly average which seems to be declining, but the risk remains increased.
The flu has, for its part, entered the pre-epidemic phase.
The flu can have symptoms in common with dengue. So, it’s not necessarily easy to make the distinction. In any case, in these cases, when you have fever, body aches, significant fatigue, it is important to consult your doctor.
Professor Antoine Chéret, infectious disease specialist
Professor Chéret reminds us that a tool is available to everyone to avoid contracting the flu: vaccination. There is still time for an injection; it is widely used around the world, not millions of people, he specifies.
Patients, to protect those around them, must ensure good hand hygiene and wear a mask.
