Business Business.- The number of Peruvians affected by dengue virus and Guillain-Barré syndrome continues to increase with concern. It is no coincidence that this is the case in our country, as various studies and experts have shown that these two diseases are intrinsically related.
To date, figures from the Ministry of Health (Minsa) show that almost 207,000 people have been infected with dengue across the country (1). At the same time, nearly 200 Peruvians(2) across the country suffer from Guillain-Barre syndrome.
There are several reasons for the exponential increase in cases, one of which is: Will be a link between two conditions. However, Dr. Felipe Carrillo Ramos, a neurologist at the Stella Maris Clinic, explained that while there is a relationship between Guillain-Barré syndrome and dengue, not everyone develops both because the latter acts as a trigger for the former. disease, and fewer neurological complications.
Guillain-Barré syndrome is an autoimmune disorder that affects the peripheral nervous system. Dengue, on the other hand, is a viral disease that causes high fever, rash, and muscle and joint pain.
“According to the National Institutes of Health, Guillain-Barré syndrome has been associated with a variety of infections, such as viruses, Zika, dengue, and even HIV, hepatitis A, and some bacteria. It follows that preventing these diseases The importance of transmission; considering an increase in any of these; it could trigger an epidemic,” the expert said.
warning sign
Dr. Felipe Carrillo Ramos, a neurologist at the Stella Maris Clinic, said people should be wary of possible Guillen Barre symptoms, such as weakness or tingling in the legs, arms and face. In severe cases, speech and the ability to swallow food may be affected.
However, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), most of these conditions usually last for a few weeks, and patients usually recover fully without serious long-term neurological complications.
In such cases, doctors recommend the following precautions to avoid any unexpected situations that may harm people’s health:
- handwashing. Wash with soap and water before and after handling food. This practice helps protect the body from the entry of harmful bacteria or viruses.
- washing fruits and vegetables. Any food that is not cleaned properly can trigger a health condition. Experts also recommend avoiding foods of dubious origin.
- Flu vaccine. Not only dengue, but this virus is also often associated with Guillain-Barré syndrome. Therefore, corresponding immunizations are recommended, especially for those over 60 years of age.