The CDC has issued an advisory for physicians, public health authorities, and the public in the United States to remain vigilant as global cases of dengue fever rise. Dengue, transmitted by the Aedes mosquito, currently has no cure, and severe cases, though rare, can be life-threatening. The CDC expects the mosquitoes’ territory to expand as global temperatures rise, likely increasing dengue cases.
Record-Breaking Cases in the Americas
In 2024, dengue fever cases in the Americas have reached unprecedented levels, with over 9.7 million reported cases, doubling the total for 2023. Puerto Rico declared a public health emergency in March 2024 following the World Health Organization’s declaration in December 2023. In the mainland U.S., 745 cases were identified in travelers in the first half of the year, which is above average.
Dengue Symptoms
Approximately 75% of people infected with dengue fever do not exhibit symptoms. Mild symptoms may include:
- Sudden fever of around 104°F (40°C)
- Muscle and joint aches
- Rash
- Pain behind the eyes
- Nausea and vomiting
- Facial flushing
- Sore throat
- Headache
- Red eyes
These symptoms typically last between 2-7 days, with most individuals recovering within a week. Severe cases, occurring in 0.5% to 5% of infections, can be life-threatening and may include:
- Abdominal pain or tenderness
- Vomiting at least three times in 24 hours
- Bleeding from the nose or gums
- Vomiting blood
- Blood in the stool
- Fatigue
- Restlessness or irritability
- Changes in temperature from very hot to very cold
- Cold, clammy skin
- Weak and rapid pulse
- High-Risk Groups
Dr. David Cutler, a board-certified family medicine physician, highlights that infants, pregnant individuals, adults over 65, and those with underlying conditions like hypertension, diabetes, asthma, chronic kidney or liver disease, and obesity are at the highest risk for severe dengue.
Preventive Measures
Preventive measures include:
- Sleeping under mosquito nets
- Using insect repellents
- Emptying and cleaning standing water containers
- Installing screens on windows and doors
- Traveling to Dengue-Endemic Areas
- Dr. Jessica Tuan, an infectious diseases specialist, advises that travelers to dengue-endemic regions are at increased risk. These areas include parts of Africa, the Americas, Southeast Asia, the Eastern Mediterranean region, and the Western Pacific. She recommends using mosquito repellent and following local guidelines to prevent mosquito bites. The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices suggests the dengue vaccine, Dengvaxia, for children aged 9-16 years with prior dengue infection and residing in endemic areas.
Future Prospects
Dr. James Shepherd, an infectious diseases specialist, notes that while the dengue virus cannot mutate like the COVID-19 virus due to the absence of treatment pressures, the rising number of cases might incentivize the development of antiviral medications as the disease spreads to more temperate and affluent regions.
Our Mission
We are dedicated to help you maintain your healthy life. Our mission is to provide the highest quality and affordable health care to you and your family.Your health isn’t just some numbers and figures. A person’s well been lays upon a healthy body, good physical condition and more importantly, a sense of feeling well.
Locations:
3916 Prince St STE 251, Flushing, NY 11354
43-73 Union St Suite 1B, Flushing, NY 11355
Disclaimer: The content on this blog is provided for general informational purposes only and is not intended as, nor should it be considered a substitute for, professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The information provided is meant to be a helpful starting point for your own research and should not be solely relied upon to make decisions about your health or the health of others. The author of this blog makes no representation or warranty of any kind, express or implied, regarding the accuracy, adequacy, validity, reliability, availability, or completeness of any information presented on this site. Under no circumstances should the author be held liable for any errors, omissions, or inaccuracies in the content or for any actions taken in reliance thereon. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before making any changes to your diet, medication, exercise routine, or lifestyle, or when seeking advice regarding a specific medical condition or health concern. The use or reliance of any information contained on this site is solely at your own risk. This blog may contain links to external websites that are not affiliated with the author. The author is not responsible for and does not endorse the content of such external sites. Any references to products, services, or health care providers on this website are not an endorsement or recommendation by the author. By using this blog, you agree to indemnify and hold harmless the author, their agents, and affiliates from and against any and all claims, liabilities, damages, losses, or expenses, including legal fees and costs, arising out of or in any way connected with your access to or use of this blog.
