CDC Issues Warning on Rising Dengue Fever Cases
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a travel warning due to an increase in cases of dengue fever, also known as “breakbone fever,” particularly affecting travelers returning to the U.S. from countries such as Cuba, Vietnam, and Samoa.
What is Dengue Fever?
Dengue fever is transmitted by infected Aedes mosquitoes and is common in tropical and subtropical regions. About 25% of those bitten by these mosquitoes show symptoms, which can range from mild to severe.
Symptoms
Common symptoms include:
- Fever
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Rash
- Muscle and joint pain
- Minor bleeding
Severe cases can manifest with:
- Intense abdominal pain
- Internal bleeding
- Rapid breathing
- Persistent vomiting
The CDC emphasizes that anyone experiencing symptoms of severe dengue fever should seek medical attention immediately, as it can lead to critical health issues, including dengue hemorrhagic fever, which is potentially fatal.
Recent Outbreaks
As of March 2023, the CDC reported an uptick in dengue cases among U.S. travelers returning from countries such as:
- Afghanistan
- Bangladesh
- Bolivia
- Colombia
- Guyana
- Vietnam
A total of 496 cases have been documented in the U.S. so far in 2026.
Prevention Measures
Travelers are advised to take precautions such as:
- Using EPA-registered insect repellent
- Wearing long-sleeved clothing
- Staying in accommodations with air conditioning or window screens
- Avoiding the outdoors during peak mosquito activity, especially at dawn and dusk.
Treatment and Recovery
Currently, there is no specific treatment for dengue fever. Recommended measures include:
- Rest
- Hydration
- Taking acetaminophen for pain and fever
Aspirin and anti-inflammatory drugs, which can exacerbate bleeding, should be avoided.
Additional Considerations
Patients recovering from dengue should avoid mosquito bites for a week, as the virus can remain in their blood. While immunity develops to the specific type contracted, it does not prevent infection from the other three dengue strains. Repeat infections can increase the risk of severe symptoms.
Vaccination
A dengue vaccine is available in the U.S. for children aged 9 to 16 who have previously contracted the illness and live in endemic areas. The vaccination regimen consists of three doses over the span of a year.
