Dengue and common flu together can put pressure on the health system, says minister

The Minister of Health, Nísia Trindade, stated this Wednesday (20) that the concomitant cases of dengue and common flu could put pressure on the health system in several municipalities and states in Brazil. According to her, the early increase in cases of respiratory viruses in the country is linked to climatic factors.

“Dengue is the most serious public health problem we have today, but it is not the only one. And we don’t want to neglect other diseases”, said Nísia.

Traditionally carried out throughout Brazil between the months of April and May, this year the flu vaccination campaign will begin on the 25th. The measure was taken by the ministry due to the epidemiological scenario, and will cover the Northeast, Central- West, Southeast and South. Given the region's climatic particularities, the North carried out immunization between November and December 2023.

The vaccine used protects the population against the main viruses circulating in the country, and the ministry's estimate is that 75 million people will be immunized against the flu.

Dengue

Brazil reached the mark of 656 deaths from dengue in 2024. According to the Arbovirus Panel updated by the Ministry of Health this Wednesday, the country has confirmed 1,978,372 cases of the disease to date.

Another 1,025 deaths are being investigated on suspicion of being linked to dengue, which would change the number of confirmed deaths. According to the folder, the disease rate in Brazil is 974.3 cases per 100 thousand inhabitants.

Last Tuesday (19), Health Minister Nísia Trindade promised, in a meeting with the National Front of Mayors (FNP), to distribute more vaccines to municipalities and greater agility in the transfer of resources. According to her, cities that have already contacted the department and have an emergency decree will have priority in the distribution order.

(*Under the supervision of Felipe Andrade)