The upcoming World Cup in Brazil faces not only the challenges of civil unrest but also the threat of a potential dengue fever epidemic in several host cities. Researchers warn that cities such as Natal, Fortaleza, and Recife are at risk of experiencing a dengue outbreak during the tournament.
Additional cities like Rio de Janeiro, Belo Horizonte, Salvador, and Manaus are also reported to have above-average risks of dengue transmission.
Dengue is a viral disease transmitted by mosquitoes, causing symptoms like fever, headache, muscle and joint pain, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, and skin rashes. In severe cases, the disease can lead to life-threatening complications. There is currently no vaccine or specific treatment for dengue.
This potential health threat could impact players and international visitors attending the World Cup, increasing the risk of the virus spreading to other countries as visitors return home.
Tags: World Cup 2014, Brazil, dengue fever, health risk, Natal, Fortaleza, Recife, Rio de Janeiro, Belo Horizonte, Salvador, Manaus
