CDC Warns of Dengue Fever Risk: Know the Symptoms and Precautions

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a high alert about the rise of dengue fever in United States. Renowned popular destinations such as Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands have received warning as the count of dengue fever cases is expected to surge in upcoming weeks. As the country enters its warmer months, there is an increased risk of transmission of the virus especially in such popular tourist spots.

CDC has cited a drastic climb in dengue cases reported among travellers in 2024, totalling 3,484 cases, which marks an 84 percent surge compared to the previous year. Given the rising trend, the CDC expects dengue activity to remain high in 2025, especially in endemic regions. Moreover, with more travel-related cases and the presence of dengue-spreading mosquitoes in the United States, there is high alert of dengue outbreak.

What is dengue fever?

Dengue (break-bone fever) is a viral infection that spreads from mosquitoes to people, which is more common in tropical and subtropical climates.^[1] This viral infection is primarily transmitted to humans through the bite of infected mosquitoes such as Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus. Furthermore, about half of the world's population is now at risk of dengue with an estimated 100–400 million infections occurring per year.^[1]

What are the symptoms of dengue fever?

When an infected mosquito bites an individual, the virus enters the body and gets mixed into the bloodstream, triggering high fever, and other symptoms of the disease, which are similar to the symptoms of other fever-causing illnesses. The major symptoms of dengue may include:

• severe headache

• muscle and joint pains

• nausea

• vomiting

• swollen glands

• rapid breathing

• Mild bleeding (gum or nose bleeds)

• fatigue ^[1]

How can dengue be prevented?

The dengue prevention is significant as there is no known medicine to treat the infection. In most cases, the doctors treat the symptoms of the dengue patients in an attempt to curtail the severity of the disease. The best way to prevent dengue is to avoid mosquito bites by using mosquito repellents and other measures. We need to further ensure that there is no stagnant water in the surroundings, as it is the breeding ground of the vectors. Hence, regular inspection and emptying of any containers of still water around your home is compulsory.

How is dengue treated?

There is no proven vaccines or medicines for dengue treatment. However, some practices could aid in alleviating the severity of the infection. Proper rest along with keeping yourself hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids could assist in faster recovery. Medications such as acetaminophen can be utilized to control fever and relieve pain.^[2]

References

1. World Health Organization. 2024. “Dengue and Severe Dengue.” World Health Organization. Accessed on March 25, 2025. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/dengue-and-severe-dengue.

‌2. CDC. 2024. “About Dengue: What You Need to Know.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Accessed on March 25, 2025. https://www.cdc.gov/dengue/about/index.html.

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(Input from various sources)

(Rehash/Jithin Paul/MSM)