The Ministry of Health (SES-DF) will expand care for people with dengue symptoms. Starting next weekend (January 20 and 21), the Basic Health Units (UBSs) 2 in Sealandia (Block F of QNN 15) and 2 in Braslandia (Quadra 45 in Vila São José) will start working on Saturdays and Sundays, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. evening. . Another 60 UBS are now open on Saturdays from 7am to 12pm and 14 offer services from Monday to Friday until 10pm. More information is available on the folder's website.
“In the same way that there has been an increase in the number of cases, we have a whole structure in place to increase care, rapid diagnosis and treatment,” says Health Minister Luceline Florencio. UBSs from other administrative regions are also expected to adhere to extended business hours on Saturday and Sunday.
According to SES-DF Primary Care Coordinator, Sandra France, residents have been advised to search for the UBS network whenever symptoms of dengue appear. Rehydration rooms have been expanded in all units, providing care facilities for those suffering from dengue symptoms, such as high temperature (above 38 degrees), body and joint pain, pain behind the eyes, malaise, lack of appetite, and headache, which may occur. Red spots on the body.
In more serious cases, when there is severe stomach pain, persistent vomiting, bleeding in the nose, mouth or stool, dizziness and a lot of fatigue, patients are referred to emergency care units (UPAs) or hospitals.
At the same time, anyone in these places with mild symptoms would take the opposite route: from hospital or UPA to UBS. To do this, there are teams to implement a “counter-referral”, which is a referral to a backup UBS. This flow allows units to make their emergency sectors available for cases requiring broader treatment. “Sometimes a person goes directly to UPA and there is a UBS close to home ready to help them,” recalls the coordinator.
Charlotte Whitmore is a contributor at Mediarunsearch.co.uk, covering a broad range of topics including news, politics, business, technology, sport, entertainment, and lifestyle. She focuses on delivering clear, balanced reporting and practical information that helps readers stay informed about current events and emerging developments. Her work highlights stories that matter to everyday audiences, with an emphasis on accuracy, relevance, and accessible journalism that keeps readers connected to the issues shaping the UK and beyond.