Well-Being

Dengue fever cases are rising in the US: What is it?

Federal health officials are warning to be alert for the disease.

by Isabelle Charboneau | Jul. 02, 2024

FILE - Salt Lake City Mosquito Abatement District biologist Nadja Reissen examines a mosquito in Salt Lake City, Aug. 26, 2019. European Union officials warned Thursday June 22, 2023, there is a growing risk of mosquito-borne viral diseases such as dengue and chikungunya in Europe due to climate change. (AP Photo/Rick Bowmer, File)
Salt Lake City Mosquito Abatement District biologist Nadja Reissen examines a mosquito in Salt Lake City, Aug. 26, 2019. (AP Photo/Rick Bowmer)

Story at a glance

  • Cases of dengue fever are three times higher in the U.S. than this time last year and have been reported in 38 states and Washington, D.C.
  • Dengue fever is a viral infection caused by infected mosquitoes.
  • It causes fevers, headaches and nausea in mild cases, while those infected for a second time can experience more severe symptoms like persistent vomiting, bleeding gums or nose and severe abdominal pain.

(NewsNation) — Cases of dengue fever, a viral infection caused by infected mosquitoes, are surging in the U.S. amid warnings from federal health officials to be alert for the disease.

According to the World Health Organization, there are an estimated 100 to 400 million infections each year worldwide, and it’s usually found in tropical and subtropical climates.  

It can have mild or no symptoms but can be fatal in severe cases. Most people get better in one to two weeks. 

Cases of dengue fever in the U.S. are three times higher than this time last year. 

Where is it spreading?

Most cases in the U.S. have been found in people who recently traveled abroad to regions where it is quickly spreading. Florida is the only state with local transmission so far, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.   

Thirty-eight states plus D.C. have reported at least one case, with Florida, New York and Massachusetts reporting the most cases.

The virus spreads fastest in warm, tropical countries. Last year, 6.6 million cases were reported worldwide. In the first four months of this year, 7.9 million cases have been reported according to the WHO.

How to spot Dengue fever

Dengue fever can cause fevers, headaches and nausea in mild cases, and symptoms usually last from two to seven days. 

Those who are infected a second time are at risk for more severe symptoms such as persistent vomiting, bleeding gums or nose and severe abdominal pain. 

Federal health officials have urged doctors to be alert for cases as the disease spreads.

How to treat Dengue fever

Most cases of dengue fever are treated at home with pain medicine, as there is no specific treatment. However, severe cases often require hospitalization. 

According to the CDC, a vaccine is recommended for children ages 9 to 16 who have contracted the infection and live in areas where it’s common.

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