With this new identification, all four dengue virus lineages (Denv-1 A DENV-4) are now present in the territory of São Paulo
The State of São Paulo recently recorded five indigenous cases of Sorotype 4 of four of them in Bauru and one still in the investigation phase. With this new identification, all four lineages of the dengue virus (DENV-1 A DENV-4) are now present in the territory of São Paulo. The Adolfo Lutz Institute, responsible for the sequencing of cases, emphasized the relevance of epidemiological surveillance. To date, São Paulo has 552,000 probable cases of dengue, as well as 475 deaths that are under investigation. This situation emphasizes the urgency of prevention measures and the importance of vaccination to contain the spread of the virus. The discovery of serotype 4 is worrying, as the immunity acquired in previous infections does not offer protection against new strains of the virus.
Samples confirmed the presence of serotype 4 were collected in sentinel units, which are responsible for collecting data from patients with symptoms compatible with dengue. The circulation of a new serotype can potentially increase the number of cases, making surveillance even more crucial. The areas most impacted by dengue include São José do Rio Preto, Araraquara and Araçatuba. To combat the transmitting mosquito proliferation, prevention is critical, especially avoiding the formation of standing water reservoirs. For children between 10 and 14 years old, the Qdenga vaccine is available, and the Butantan Institute is developing a single dose vaccine. The State Department of Health maintains a constant monitoring of the dengue situation and other arboviruses, seeking to implement effective strategies to protect the population.
Posted by Sarah Paula
*Report produced with the aid of AI
