Dengue in Holy Week: Over 20,000 cases in 2026 and risk in 90% of the national territory
Over 20,000 cases of dengue have been registered in Colombia so far in 2026 as of March 10. Photo: iStock
TL;DR
- Dengue transmission increases with travel during Holy Week to areas below 2,200 meters above sea level, covering 90% of Colombia.
- Cities like Santa Marta have over 700 cases, contrasting with three in Bogotá.
- In 2025, 123,756 dengue cases were reported, with 37.12% showing alarm signs and 0.98% severe dengue, resulting in 118 deaths.
- As of March 10, 2026, over 20,000 cases and 7,960 hospitalizations have occurred.
- Fifty-six percent of cases affect individuals between 0 and 19 years old.
- Prevention includes eliminating stagnant water, using repellents, protective clothing, and bed nets.
- Vaccination is recommended as a tool to reduce hospitalizations from severe dengue.