Growing concern over dengue in Patagonia due to climate changes and mosquitoes.

The growing concern over dengue in Patagonia has become a prominent issue on the health agenda of the provinces of Río Negro and Neuquén. Since its reemergence in 1998 in northern Argentina, the dengue virus has expanded its presence as the transmitting mosquitoes, particularly Aedes aegypti, have extended their geographical distribution. Recently, these insects have been detected in regions that were previously considered safe from the disease, raising alarms among experts and health authorities. Although no local circulation of the virus has been recorded in these provinces to date, current climatic conditions have generated unease. The unusually high temperatures in the region could facilitate the proliferation of these mosquito populations, prompting experts like Dr. Darío Vezzani to warn about the risk of local dengue transmission beginning. "High temperatures favor the increase of Aedes mosquito populations, and dengue virus circulation may occur," he stated to Diario RIO NEGRO. The impact of climate change is undeniable in this context. The southern limit of the Aedes aegypti mosquito has notably expanded in recent decades, a reality intensified by rising temperatures due to greenhouse gas emissions. The combination of these factors increases the likelihood that if infected individuals were to arrive in Northern Patagonia and were bitten by local mosquitoes, a cycle of local transmission could begin. Concern is supported by recent data. In Neuquén, for example, the first detection of Aedes aegypti occurred in 2010, but it was not until 2023 that these insects were confirmed again in the region following tests conducted with ovitraps. During the last week of 2024, results reaffirmed this presence by finding mosquito eggs. Although only imported cases of dengue have been recorded so far, experts warn that the situation could change drastically if proper precautions are not taken. In Río Negro, the situation is similar. The presence of the mosquito was first detected in 2020, and in subsequent years, they have been found in several localities, highlighting a concerning trend. The provincial Health Secretariat has been working to better understand this dynamic and act accordingly, but much remains to be done to prevent an outbreak. To address this growing risk, a team of researchers led by Vezzani and his colleague Aníbal Carbajo has formed a network of experts aimed at implementing an early warning and prevention system for dengue in the region. This group includes prominent scientists from various institutions who seek to establish clear and efficient protocols to monitor the situation and act before local cases of the disease occur. Dr. Ana Julia Pereira, also a member of this network, emphasizes the importance of training health personnel in the early detection of dengue-related symptoms. Educating the public is equally crucial; citizens must be vigilant for symptoms such as high fever, headache, nausea, and others, and seek medical attention promptly if they present these indicators. The call to action extends beyond medical attention; it also involves the need to eliminate mosquito breeding grounds. The population plays an active role in prevention, and it is essential to take measures to avoid the accumulation of stagnant water, where these insects can reproduce. The outlook for Patagonia regarding dengue is uncertain, but the efforts of researchers and health authorities are a step in the right direction. The establishment of an alert and prevention network could make a difference in the fight against the disease, especially in a region that until recently seemed safe from this threat. Staying informed and acting proactively will be key to safeguarding the health of the Patagonian population.