Dengue Fever Threatens The U.S.
Flu and COVID cases are starting to decline as warmer spring weather arrives across the U.S. However, while the shift in seasons is welcome, it brings its own health risks, including the threat of mosquito-borne diseases like dengue virus. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a warning about the rise in dengue cases and shared steps for protection.
Dengue is a viral infection spread by infected female mosquitoes from the Aedes genus, typically found in tropical and subtropical climates and densely populated urban areas. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), most people infected with dengue do not show symptoms, but common ones can include high fever, headaches, body aches, nausea, and a rash. While many people recover within one to two weeks, severe dengue can develop, especially in individuals with previous infections, infants, pregnant women, older adults, and those with certain health conditions.
In severe cases, symptoms such as persistent vomiting, severe abdominal pain, rapid breathing, and bleeding can appear after the fever subsides, sometimes leading to hospitalization. Although rare, dengue can be fatal. As of February 2025, countries like Brazil, Colombia, Mexico, and Peru have reported high numbers of dengue cases. The U.S. has also seen cases, with outbreaks in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands in 2024. States like Florida, California, and New York reported significant numbers of travel-related cases, and there were locally transmitted cases in California, Florida, and Texas.
The CDC warns that dengue transmission remains a concern in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, with travel during the spring and summer increasing the risk of both travel-associated and local cases. To minimize the chances of contracting dengue, avoiding travel to regions where the virus is prevalent is advised. The CDC and WHO recommend preventive measures such as wearing protective clothing, using insect repellents with DEET or Picaridin, and utilizing mosquito nets and screens.
In addition to protecting against dengue, it’s important to reduce mosquito activity around the home. Steps such as eliminating standing water, trimming overgrown grass, and using outdoor fans or traps can help keep mosquitoes at bay. For added protection, hiring a professional pest control service can further reduce the risk of mosquito-borne diseases.
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