“Extrapolation”: A wave of dengue fever leaves the hospital operating at maximum capacity in Joinville

The Doña Helena and Bethesda Hospital, in Joinville, north of Santa Catarina, is on alert due to high demand for care. Most cases are associated with patients with dengue symptoms.

Bethesda Hospital is operating at maximum capacity – Photo: Disclosure/ND

In an interview with ND Mais, the General Director of Bethesda Hospital, Lucio Francisco Slovenski, revealed that only Monday (12) There were 309 consultations. According to the doctor, the team is assembled to care for 200 patients daily.

“A few weeks ago, this was already out of reach. We have been following the gradual increase in demand for our emergency care. From mid-January to now, for example, we have already had a 36% increase,” the director explained.

The hospital also issued a statement stating that it was working at maximum capacity in its emergency care units and dispensaries and advised residents not to resort to them except in emergency or emergency situations. For other complaints, the advice is to look for a basic health unit.

Joinville has already recorded four deaths due to dengue in 2024 and has 982 confirmed cases, with another 4,046 under investigation, according to city council data on Tuesday (13).

Dengue: Doña Helena Hospital activates emergency plan

As the situation deteriorated, Doña Helena Hospital contacted the hospital Emergency plan – Increasing the number of beds available in the emergency sector.

Moreover, it strengthened the on-call staff team, reviewed internal protocols based on guidelines issued by the Ministry of Health, and expanded the physical area for receiving treatment for patients.

Dr. Luana Verabone, emergency coordinator, said collection protocols have been reviewed to ensure all tests are collected and results are obtained as quickly as possible.

“We are constantly looking for improvements, and respond to user suggestions according to the reality of each moment. As in previous years, we will maintain an outstanding service, with an emphasis on safety.