On Dec. 10, 2024, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) reported on three transmissible diseases affecting the Region of the Americas: dengue, Oropouche, and avian influenza (H5N1). PAHO Director Dr. Jarbas Barbosa expressed concern over the increase in cases in 2024 but emphasized effective strategies to control the outbreaks and mitigate their impact.

This year, the region has faced the largest dengue epidemic since records began in 1980. Countries have reported more than 12.6 million cases, nearly three times more than in 2023, including 21,000 severe cases and over 7700 deaths. Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, and Mexico account for 90% of cases and 88% of deaths, with Brazil having the largest share.

PAHO has also observed an increase in cases of Oropouche virus, which is transmitted by infected midges and some mosquito species. In 2024, more than 11,600 cases have been reported in 12 countries and territories in the region, mostly in Brazil.

Dr. Barbosa reported that the H5N1 human virus cases, also known as avian influenza, is moderate and the public health impact remains limited. He stated “In 2024, 58 human cases have been reported in the United States and 1 in Canada. This contrasts with the three cases reported in the previous two years for the entire region.”