News: Arrival of the Southern Hemisphere summer: Be on the lookout for arboviruses

With the arrival of the southern summer, weather conditions will be conducive to an increase in the vector density of Aedes albopictus, the vector for dengue, chikungunya, and other arboviruses. We therefore remind you that in the event of any dengue-like syndrome*, it is recommended to:

• Order laboratory confirmation for chikungunya and dengue - within the first 4 days after the onset of symptoms (OOS): RT-PCR only—between 5 and 7 days after the ODS: RT-PCR and serology (IgM and IgG)—more than 7 days after the ODS: serology only (IgM and IgG), to be repeated at a minimum interval of 15 days in the same laboratory to confirm or rule out the case if the first result is positive.

• Monitor for any warning signs and advise the patient to seek immediate medical attention if they appear;

• Treat pain and fever with acetaminophen (aspirin, ibuprofen, and other NSAIDs must not be used under any circumstances).