Mexico launches National Plan to combat dengue and improve eye health.

This morning, at a press conference in Mexico City, the federal Undersecretary of Health, Dr. Ramiro Elizalde, formally presented the National Plan for the Control of Dengue and other arboviral diseases, which includes illnesses such as Zika, Chikungunya, and Yellow Fever. The focus was on dengue, a disease whose complexity and risk have increased in the country, especially with the onset of the rainy season and high temperatures. Dr. Elizalde emphasized the severity of dengue in Mexico, where the predominant type is Type 3. This aspect is crucial, as those who have previously suffered from dengue are susceptible to infection from other serotypes, which can lead to severe complications and even hemorrhagic dengue. The symptoms associated with this disease are alarming and include high fever, headache, retro-orbital pain, and in severe cases, hemorrhaging and abdominal issues. The undersecretary explained how dengue spreads: an infected mosquito bites a healthy person, transmitting the virus and thus spreading the disease. For this reason, it is essential for the population to be informed about the symptoms and to seek immediate medical attention. The recommendation is that when symptoms appear, individuals should go to the first level of medical care and avoid self-medication with drugs like aspirin or naproxen, which can worsen the situation. The dengue situation is not just a local problem; on a global scale, more than 14 million cases of dengue have been reported, with over 90% of these detected in the Americas. In this context, Mexico ranks third in incidence, after Jalisco and Nuevo León, underscoring the urgency of implementing the National Plan starting in February or March, with specific actions extending until December. The plan includes the distribution of insecticides and larvicides, as well as the release of mosquitoes infected with a bacterium that reduces the transmission capacity of dengue. However, Dr. Elizalde stressed that the success of the plan depends on the collaboration of the population in preventing and controlling mosquito breeding sites, which thrive in urban and suburban environments. In addition to presenting the National Plan for the Control of Dengue, the undersecretary also spoke about the "Ver Por México" initiative, aimed at combating blindness caused by cataracts, which affects 760,000 people in the country. This condition is the leading cause of reversible blindness, and unfortunately, one-third of those affected do not receive treatment due to a lack of financial resources or access to health services. The "Ver Por México" program, which has performed nearly 40,000 surgeries since its implementation, seeks to democratize access to eye health. The system includes 176 hospitals nationwide, and the surgical procedures are completely free. President Claudia Sheinbaum reinforced the importance of the digital platform established to manage these surgeries, ensuring that care will reach those who need it most. Citizens interested in receiving cataract treatment can access the platform cataratas.atdt.gob.mx, where they can register their request and receive follow-up on their treatment. This strategy not only aims to address the issue of blindness but also has an inclusive focus, ensuring that health services reach the most vulnerable communities. Both initiatives, the fight against dengue and the strategy for addressing cataracts, are part of a broader effort to improve public health in Mexico. The federal government has recognized the importance of anticipating outbreaks and diseases, investing in programs that not only address immediate needs but also seek to prevent long-term complications in the health of the population. As these plans are implemented, it is clear that collaboration between the government and citizens is essential. Raising awareness about dengue prevention and timely attention for cataracts are crucial steps toward a healthier future for all Mexicans.