Dengue Cases Drop by 23% in Belize for 2024

The Ministry of Health has reported a significant decline in dengue cases across the country as the year draws to a close. By the 50th epidemiological week of 2024, a total of 2,266 cases were recorded, marking a 23% decrease compared to 2,945 cases during the same period in 2023.

This drop comes as health officials continue efforts to combat the mosquito-borne disease.

The districts of Toledo and Stann Creek accounted for over half of the country’s cases. Toledo reported 645 cases (28% of the national total), while Stann Creek followed with 536 cases (24%). These southern districts continue to grapple with high transmission rates despite national improvements.

Other districts showed notable declines. Cayo recorded 485 cases, representing 21% of the national total. Belize District followed with 206 cases (9%), while Orange Walk and Corozal registered 292 (13%) and 102 (5%) cases, respectively.

The figures also highlighted a shift in the severity of outbreaks. Lab-confirmed cases in 2024 were fewer compared to prior years, demonstrating improved diagnostic measures and public health interventions.

Health officials credit community outreach, increased public awareness, and strategic mosquito control programs for the reduction. However, they stress the need for sustained efforts in high-burden areas like Toledo and Stann Creek, where environmental factors and weather patterns continue to favour the Aedes aegypti mosquito.

With dengue fever remaining a public health concern, the Ministry urges the public to stay vigilant by eliminating mosquito breeding sites and seeking medical care promptly for symptoms such as fever, severe headache, and joint pain.

However, across the Americas, the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO) is reporting a surge in dengue cases, marking the region’s worst epidemic since 1980. It said that over 12.6 million cases have been reported — nearly triple the number recorded in 2023 — including 21,000 severe cases and more than 7,700 deaths. Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, and Mexico account for 90% of the cases and 88% of the deaths, with Brazil being the hardest hit.