Discover Healthy Tips to Prevent Dengue Fever Outbreaks

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently issued a health advisory warning about the increased risk of Dengue fever infections in the United States. The number of reported cases has been unexpectedly high this year, with a total of 2,241 cases across the country so far. In Puerto Rico alone, there have been 1,498 cases, leading to a public health emergency being declared in March. Most of the cases reported in the states are travel-related.

Last year, there were 3,036 dengue cases reported in the U.S. and its territories. The incidence of dengue fever globally has been at the highest level on record, especially in Latin American countries, where over 9.7 million cases have been reported. This is double the number of cases reported in 2023. The rise in cases can be attributed to the increasingly hot temperatures that provide ideal conditions for mosquitoes to spread the virus.

Symptoms of dengue fever include fever, headaches, nausea, vomiting, rash, and body pain. While most patients recover within a week, severe cases can be life-threatening and require hospitalization. Individuals who have had dengue in the past are more likely to develop severe symptoms. It is possible to get sick with dengue fever up to four times in a lifetime, once for each type of virus that can cause the disease.

The CDC has advised healthcare providers to be vigilant for dengue fever among individuals with fever, especially those who have recently been in areas with high dengue transmission rates. They are also encouraged to report any cases promptly to public health authorities and promote mosquito bite prevention measures. The CDC is taking additional steps to improve and expand laboratory testing for more effective diagnosis and educate the public on the disease and prevention methods.

Preventative measures for dengue fever include staying in air-conditioned places when possible, using insect repellent, and wearing long sleeves and pants to avoid mosquito bites. It is essential for the public to be aware of the risks associated with dengue fever and take necessary precautions to prevent infection.