CDC Warns Of Deadly Dengue Fever Outbreak In The US: Puerto Rico, Virgin Islands On High Alert (Image Credits: iStock)
The United States is witnessing a sharp surge in dengue fever cases, due to which the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a high alert for Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands. As the country enters its warmer months, health experts warn that the risk of outbreaks in non-endemic regions has grown significantly.
The CDC has shown an alarming rise in dengue cases among US travellers, with 2024 recording 3,484 cases—a staggering 84 per cent increase compared to the previous year. Given the rising trend, the agency expects dengue activity to remain high in 2025, especially in endemic regions.
Dengue Transmission and Risk Factors
Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne viral infection primarily transmitted by Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes, which thrive in warm, tropical climates. With increased travel during spring and summer coinciding with peak dengue season in many countries, the likelihood of both travel-related and locally acquired cases in the US is higher than ever.
Warmer temperatures, combined with favourable breeding conditions, contribute to the spread of the virus. Currently, active transmission is reported in US territories, including Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands, where outbreaks have been officially declared.
Alarming Global and National Trends
Over the past five years, dengue cases have risen sharply worldwide, particularly in the Americas. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 2024 saw a record-breaking 7.6 million reported dengue cases globally, with 3.4 million confirmed cases. Of these, over 16,000 were classified as severe, and more than 3,000 resulted in fatalities.
Puerto Rico has been battling a sustained dengue outbreak since early 2024. The island exceeded the outbreak threshold in February 2024, leading to the declaration of a public health emergency in March. The CDC reported that Puerto Rico recorded 6,291 dengue cases last year, with over half of the affected individuals requiring hospitalization. Tragically, 13 people lost their lives to the virus.
Similarly, the U.S. Virgin Islands declared an outbreak in August 2024, which remains ongoing. Health authorities reported 208 cases in 2024 and an additional 30 cases in early 2025. Travel-related dengue cases have also been rising in mainland states, with Florida, California, and New York reporting the highest numbers.
Symptoms of Dengue Fever
Dengue fever symptoms typically appear 4–10 days after a mosquito bite and range from mild to severe. Common symptoms include:
High fever (104 degrees F or higher).
In severe cases, dengue can lead to dengue hemorrhagic fever or dengue shock syndrome, which can cause internal bleeding, organ failure, and even death. Warning signs of severe dengue include persistent vomiting, difficulty breathing, severe abdominal pain, and bleeding gums or nose.
How to Stay Safe: Prevention and Protection
Given the rising number of cases, the CDC has urged health experts, public health departments, and the public to take immediate preventive measures. Here are essential ways to protect yourself and your community from dengue fever:
Eliminate Mosquito Breeding Grounds: Empty and clean water-holding containers such as flower pots, birdbaths, tyres, and buckets to prevent mosquito breeding.
The CDC continues to monitor the situation closely and advises travellers to check dengue risk levels before visiting endemic areas.
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