Due to the rising number of dengue fever cases and above-average temperatures, Peru has declared a state of health emergency in many provinces.

Peru’s Ministry of Health reports that the number of dengue fever cases this year is double that of the same period in 2023, with over 31,000 cases reported.

Peru’s Health Minister, Cesar Vasquez, previously stated that the situation is getting out of control and described it as “serious”.

The health crisis allows the government to swiftly provide funds to affected areas and ease the transfer of medical professionals.

It includes 20 out of the country’s 24 provinces, including the capital, Lima, and its surrounding areas.

Mosquitoes transmit dengue fever, an endemic disease that causes high fever, headaches, nausea, vomiting, and muscle pain. In extreme situations, bleeding can result in fatalities.