Dengue epidemic affects 19 municipalities in São Paulo

Nineteen municipalities in the São José do Rio Preto regional health department are currently facing dengue epidemics. These areas represent nearly a quarter of the cities in São Paulo state with incidence rates exceeding 300 cases per 100,000 inhabitants, the threshold established by the World Health Organization and the Ministry of Health.

While the Greater São Paulo area has recorded the highest absolute number of confirmed cases, the highest proportional risk is concentrated in the northwest of the state. Regions including Araçatuba, Presidente Prudente, and São José do Rio Preto lead in incidence rates. As of early September, the state has recorded over 58,000 confirmed cases and 41 deaths, a significant decrease compared to the critical levels seen in previous years.

Health authorities are monitoring the impact of El Niño, as high temperatures and irregular rainfall create ideal conditions for the Aedes aegypti mosquito. The state government has implemented a contingency plan to combat the vector. Vaccination efforts continue with the Qdenga vaccine for adolescents aged 10 to 14, though the Butantan-DV vaccine application remains temporarily suspended due to the monitoring of adverse reactions.