EsSalud launches "The Dengue Game" to raise awareness about this disease.

In an effort to raise awareness and educate the public about dengue prevention, the Social Health Insurance (EsSalud) has launched an innovative and dynamic proposal: "The Dengue Game." This activity, inspired by the popular series "Squid Game," aims to capture the public's attention and promote learning about controlling this disease, which has been a concern in Lima and other regions of the country. The event took place at the Central Station of the Metropolitano, a strategic location that facilitates access to a wide audience. Dengue is a disease transmitted by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, and recent reports indicate an increase in recorded cases. According to Dr. Edwin Neciosup, head of the Intelligence and Health Information Office of EsSalud, as of January 20, there have been 1,410 cases of dengue reported, with an alarming 40% of them among the population under 17 years of age. This statistic highlights the urgent need for preventive and educational approaches, particularly aimed at young people, who are especially vulnerable to this disease. During the day, attendees not only enjoyed a playful experience but were also provided with an informative circuit on the correct way to prevent dengue transmission. Iconic characters from "Squid Game," accompanied by a mosquito, acted as guides in this educational experience, interacting with the public and providing crucial information through games and quizzes. This playful approach has been well received, as it transforms a serious topic into an accessible and engaging experience for everyone. The event also included general medical care, with services in nutrition and nursing offered, positioning EsSalud not only as an informative entity but also as a health provider. Additionally, a vaccination campaign against various diseases, such as hepatitis B, yellow fever, and pneumococcus, was carried out, thus strengthening public health in the region. EsSalud's strategy, called "Act Against Dengue," focuses on the idea that information and prevention are powerful tools in the fight against this disease. By conducting activities in highly frequented public spaces, the institution aims to raise awareness about the importance of eradicating mosquito breeding sites and recognizing dengue symptoms early. Dr. Neciosup emphasized EsSalud's commitment to carrying out more of these activities in other strategic locations in Lima, thereby expanding the reach of its educational campaign. Prevention is a key aspect in the fight against dengue, and every action counts in reducing the risks of contagion. In parallel to this campaign, the National Service of Meteorology and Hydrology of Peru (Senamhi) has issued alerts about climatic conditions in various regions. While Lima faces cold days, the Peruvian jungle is experiencing a heatwave. This climatic contrast may influence the proliferation of the Aedes aegypti mosquito, making dengue prevention even more crucial in this context. The combination of these public health initiatives and attention to climatic conditions underscores the importance of a multidimensional approach to tackling dengue. Collaboration among various entities is vital to creating a safer environment for the population, especially during times when vector-borne diseases may see an increase in incidence. Finally, "The Dengue Game" serves as a reminder that education and prevention are fundamental elements in the fight against dengue. Through innovative methods and EsSalud's commitment, it is hoped that greater awareness will be generated among the population, contributing to a reduction in the number of cases and protecting the health of everyone, especially the younger generation, who are the future of our society.