Health
Dengue on the Rise: Essential Tips to Stay Safe in the U.S.
As the warmer months approach, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued an alert regarding a rise in dengue cases in the United States. This mosquito-borne disease, which is more common in tropical and subtropical regions, is becoming a growing concern domestically.
Dengue is primarily spread by infected female mosquitoes of the Aedes genus, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). While many individuals infected with dengue may not exhibit symptoms, the disease can still pose significant health risks.
In 2024, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands faced dengue outbreaks, underscoring that the U.S. is not immune to this viral infection. The CDC reports, “A record number of dengue cases were identified among U.S. travelers (3,483 cases), which is an 84% increase compared to the previous year.”
The CDC warns that dengue virus transmission remains particularly high in Puerto Rico, where a public health emergency was declared in March 2024, and in the U.S. Virgin Islands. The agency highlights that “spring and summer travel coincide with the peak season for dengue in many countries, increasing the risk of both travel-associated and locally acquired cases in the United States.”
To protect yourself from dengue, avoiding travel to endemic regions is the most effective measure. The CDC provides a comprehensive list of such countries for reference.
The WHO advises that mosquitoes carrying dengue are active during the day. Therefore, if you’re in an area where these mosquitoes are prevalent, consider taking the following precautions:
“Wear clothing that covers as much of your body as possible.”
“Use mosquito repellents containing DEET, Picaridin, or IR3535.”
“Use mosquito nets if sleeping, ideally nets sprayed with insect repellent.”
Beyond these measures, reducing mosquito activity around your home is crucial. As previously noted by Best Life, you can further protect yourself by:
“Rid your property of any standing water or places where water accumulates.”
“Keep grass and shrubs neat and trimmed.”
“Use outdoor fans to deter mosquitos and other flying insects.”
By adopting these preventative strategies, you can significantly reduce your risk of contracting dengue and enjoy the warmer seasons with greater peace of mind.
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