Urgent health warning issued over resurgent 1700s vomiting virus with one key symptom
The World Health Organisation has issued an urgent warning over the resurgence of a 1700's virus.
Dengue Fever: Doctor outlines signs and symptoms of infection
Health experts are alarmed over a resurgence of a vomiting virus from the 1700s, known for its "bloody poo" symptom.
The World Health Organisation has issued an urgent warning as cases of this rare disease, Dengue fever, have increased.
First identified in 1779, Dengue fever can cause blood-filled poo, fever, headaches, bleeding mouth and nose, vomiting, and severe heart and muscle problems.
The WHO's experts have confirmed an "unexpected" surge in cases, leading to a "historic high" of five million cases in 2023, including 5,000 dengue-related deaths.
Most of these cases were found in the Americas, with the rest coming from Africa, South-East Asia, Western Pacific and the Eastern Mediterranean regions.
READ MORE: EU in grips of Covid wave sparking vaccination race as masks make comeback
Follow Daily Express US
Get all the latest news, entertainment, sport and lifestyle updates from our dedicated American team.
Follow Daily Express US on Facebook and Twitter @ExpressUSNews
The risk at a global level is now considered "high". The last known cases in the UK were reported in 2018, but the WHO confirms that there is no more "comprehensive data" after that year.
A spokesperson stated: "Several factors are associated with the increasing risk of spread of the dengue epidemic including, the changing distribution of the vectors, especially in previously dengue naive countries; the consequences of El Nino phenomena in 2023 and climate change leading to increasing temperatures and high rainfall, humidity among others; fragile health systems in the midst of COVID-19 pandemic, political and financial instabilities in countries facing complex humanitarian crises and high population movements.
"These factors also challenge the response to the epidemic and the risk of further spread to other countries.
"Weakness in the surveillance systems in many affected countries may have led to delayed reporting and response and missed identification of symptoms, contributing to increased severe dengue outcomes."
Don't miss...
UK seabirds hit hard by severe Avian flu outbreak, Wildlife Trusts reveal [LATEST]
E.coli: teen lucky to survive Christmas market visit, family seeks support [INSIGHT]
Revolutionary winter virus jab for babies could cut hospital admissions by 80% [COMMENT]
The spokesperson also emphasised a "pressing need to increase advocacy and resource mobilization in an integrated approach to influence policymakers in affected countries within these regions".
Dengue can exhibit symptoms such as:
- Severe abdominal pain
- Continued vomiting
- Rapid breathing
- Bleeding gums or nose
- Fatigue
- Restlessness
- Blood in vomit or stool
- Feeling very thirsty
- Pale, cold skin
- Feeling weak
Follow our social media accounts here on facebook.com/ExpressUSNews