Antofagasta mosquito presence prompts dengue prevention advice

Following reports of active Aedes aegypti mosquito breeding sites in the urban area of Antofagasta, health specialist Sergio Werhinger from the University of Talca has issued guidance on preventing diseases such as dengue and Zika.

Werhinger noted that the presence of the mosquito does not automatically mean these diseases are circulating locally. For a transmission chain to occur, the mosquito must establish itself and bite a human carrier who has traveled from an area where the viruses are active.

To prevent mosquito development, residents are advised to avoid accumulating stagnant water in containers, gutters, flowerpots, animal bowls, or tires. Clean water storage should also be kept properly covered and cleaned regularly.

Symptoms of dengue include fever, headache, muscle and joint pain, and pain behind the eyes. While many cases are mild, some can evolve into severe dengue involving hemorrhages, organ involvement, or shock.