The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a fresh warning about the heightened risk of dengue virus infections in the Americas, citing a record-breaking number of cases reported in the region. From January 1 to June 24 of this year, over 9.7 million dengue cases were recorded across countries in the Americas, more than double the total infections reported in 2023.
The CDC highlighted that the global incidence of dengue in 2024 has reached unprecedented levels, with many countries reporting higher-than-usual case numbers. Specifically, countries in the Americas have reported a historic number of dengue cases this year, surpassing previous records.
Dengue virus is described by the CDC as the most common mosquito-borne disease globally. In the United States, Florida has reported the highest number of cases so far in 2024, followed by New York, Massachusetts, and California.
Six U.S. territories and freely associated states are classified as areas with frequent or continuous dengue transmission, including Puerto Rico, American Samoa, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
The CDC noted that one in every four dengue infections presents with symptoms such as fever, nausea, rash, and muscle and joint pain. Severe cases, characterized by bleeding, shock, or respiratory distress, occur in 1 in 20 individuals with symptomatic dengue.
Infants under one year old, pregnant women, and adults over 65 are at an increased risk of severe dengue. The transmission of the virus peaks during warmer and wetter months in tropical and subtropical regions.
Currently, there is no specific medication to treat dengue. Infected individuals are advised to rest, take acetaminophen for pain and fever, stay hydrated, and seek medical attention.
