July 1, 2024
In a crucial advisory issued on Tuesday, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has alerted doctors to be vigilant for cases of dengue fever, a mosquito-borne disease, as a significant surge in global dengue cases elevates the risk of transmission in the United States.
Global Surge and Climate Impact
The CDC’s warning comes against the backdrop of an unprecedented rise in dengue cases worldwide, attributed to the warming climate exacerbated by human-induced climate change. The primary vectors, Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes, thrive in warmer and wetter conditions, facilitating the spread of the disease.
Increased Cases Among US Travelers
Traditionally, dengue has been rare in the continental US, with most cases reported among individuals returning from dengue-endemic regions. However, 2024 has seen a notable increase in cases among US travelers, with 745 instances recorded by June 24. In 2023, the CDC documented 1,829 travel-associated dengue cases, the highest since the disease became reportable in the US in 2010.
Record-Breaking Numbers in the Americas
Globally, dengue cases have reached record highs in 2024. In the Americas alone, over 9.7 million people have contracted the disease, doubling the cases from the previous year. Puerto Rico has declared a public health emergency due to the overwhelming number of dengue cases.
Local Transmission in the US
While the US has experienced sporadic outbreaks in states like Florida, Texas, Hawaii, Arizona, and recently California, where Pasadena reported its first locally transmitted case last year, the current surge underscores the need for heightened awareness and preparedness.
CDC’s Recommendations
The CDC urges healthcare providers to test patients exhibiting dengue-like symptoms, especially those with recent travel history to endemic regions. Dengue symptoms, typically emerging about a week post-infection, can range from fever, muscle and joint pain, headache, nausea, and low white blood cell counts to severe manifestations like persistent vomiting, abdominal pain, and respiratory distress. Severe dengue can lead to organ failure and death, with a mortality rate of up to 13% in untreated cases.
Vulnerable Populations and Preventive Measures
Infants, pregnant individuals, the elderly, and those with underlying health conditions are at higher risk for severe dengue. The CDC emphasizes preventive measures such as using insect repellent, wearing protective clothing, and ensuring mosquito-free indoor environments through air conditioning and window screens.
Vaccine and Treatment
Currently, there is no widely recommended dengue vaccine for travelers or adults in the US. The only available vaccine, Dengvaxia, is limited to specific age groups in Puerto Rico until its doses expire in 2026. The CDC is enhancing lab capacities and collaborating with local authorities to bolster surveillance and response efforts.
As the global dengue situation intensifies, the CDC’s alert underscores the critical need for vigilance and proactive measures to mitigate the risk of dengue transmission in the US. Public awareness and preventive actions are essential in combating this growing health threat.
For more information and updates, visit the CDC’s official website.
