The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a health alert regarding high levels of dengue virus infections in some US territories and countries in the Americas region. The risk remains elevated, particularly in Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands.
In Puerto Rico, a dengue emergency was declared in March 2024, with cases this year increasing by 113% compared to last year. The US Virgin Islands have also reported an outbreak, with 30 local cases already confirmed this year.
globally, dengue cases have risen significantly over the past five years, and record levels in the Americas led to a notable increase in travel-related cases in the US in 2024, up 84% from last year. The CDC warns that spring and summer travel coincides with peak season for dengue, increasing the risk of both locally acquired and travel-associated cases.
Notably, the proportion of dengue serotype 4 has seen an upward trend among travelers. Healthcare providers are advised to use a specific test and new guidelines when investigating suspected cases.
Source: https://www.cidrap.umn.edu/dengue/cdc-issues-alert-about-ongoing-dengue-threat