The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) today published an Epidemiological Alert regarding chikungunya outbreaks in the Region of the Americas. The PAHO confirmed this mosquito-borne virus is expanding to new areas with an unusually high number of cases and related fatalities.
During the first eight epidemiological weeks of 2023, 115,539 cases and 33 fatalities due to chikungunya infection were reported.
The greatest incidence rates were observed in Paraguay (1,128 cases per 100,000 pop.) and Brazil (14.2 cases per 100,000 pop.).
Chikungunya Outbreaks Accelerate and Turn Fatal
Norovirus Upsets Spring Break for Cruisers
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently confirmed more than 300 people became ill on a Galveston, Texas, based cruise ship last week.
On March 7, 2023, the CDC's Investigation Update regarding vomiting and diarrhea on the Princess Cruises' Ruby Princess voyage #RU305P determined:
Minimal Change in Mental Health Linked to COVID-19
In general population studies, no change observed in general mental health or anxiety symptoms; minimal worsening seen in depression symptoms
Viral, Symptom Rebound Common After COVID-19 Infection
Incidence of symptom rebound was higher in the nirmatrelvir plus ritonavir treatment group