The CDC has issued a global travel alert for dengue fever, as more travelers returning to the U.S. are testing positive for this mosquito-borne illness. This “Level 1” advisory, the lowest level, encourages usual precautions. Dengue, often known as “breakbone fever,” can cause symptoms like fever, nausea, and severe body aches, and in serious cases, can lead to uncontrolled bleeding or organ failure.
Currently, the risk of dengue is heightened in various countries, including Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and Colombia. With over 525 reported cases in the U.S. this year, health officials advise travelers to use insect repellent, dress in long sleeves and pants, and opt for accommodations with air conditioning or window screens to minimize mosquito exposure. The CDC emphasizes that this advisory is not a travel ban but a reminder for safety precautions in tropical and subtropical areas.
