CDC Issues Travel Alert: Understanding the Rising Threat of Dengue Fever

In recent weeks, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a critical health alert regarding dengue fever, a virus transmitted by mosquitoes that can lead to severe health complications. According to the CDC, rates of dengue fever have surged in 2025, particularly in popular travel destinations like Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Understanding how to protect yourself from this virus while traveling is essential for a safe and enjoyable trip.

The CDC’s health alert highlights the alarming rise in dengue cases in the Americas. This year alone, over 760,000 dengue instances were reported in the region, reflecting a 15% increase compared to the average number of cases seen in the past five years.

Puerto Rico is experiencing a significant public health emergency, with 936 confirmed cases of dengue in 2025—a staggering 113% increase from the previous year. Additionally, the U.S. Virgin Islands has reported 30 cases this year, following outbreaks declared in both territories in 2024 that are still ongoing.

Dengue fever has also made its presence felt in the continental U.S. this year, with cases reported in:

• New York: 6 cases
• California: 10 cases
• Florida: 45 cases

Dr. Rebecca Schein, a board-certified pediatrician, explains that the emergence of dengue fever coincides with the season when many people travel to warmer climates. This transition increases the risk of infection due to heightened mosquito activity during this time of year.

Understanding Dengue Fever

Dengue fever is a widespread disease caused by mosquitoes infected with the dengue virus. Millions of cases arise each year, especially in tropical and subtropical regions where mosquito populations thrive. The disease can lead to serious illness, with statistics indicating over 13 million cases and around 8,200 deaths reported in the Americas in 2024.

Recognizing Symptoms of Dengue Fever

It is important to note that only one in four individuals infected with dengue fever will exhibit symptoms, which usually last from two to seven days. Symptoms may develop up to two weeks after being bitten by an infected mosquito. Common symptoms include:

• Fever
• Aches and pains, typically behind the eyes and in muscles, joints, or bones
• Nausea and vomiting
• Rash

While many recover from dengue fever, approximately one in twenty cases can lead to severe complications. Vulnerable groups, such as infants, pregnant women, elderly adults, and individuals with compromised immune systems are at higher risk for severe illness.

Dengue fever is classified as a hemorrhagic fever, meaning it hampers the blood’s ability to clot, leading to serious symptoms like:

• Belly pain or tenderness
• Vomiting multiple times within 24 hours
• Bleeding from the nose or gums
• Vomiting blood or blood in the stool
• Extreme fatigue or restlessness

Diagnosis and Treatment of Dengue Fever

Diagnosing dengue fever typically involves a combination of symptom evaluation, recent travel history, and laboratory testing. If symptoms align with dengue fever and there is a travel history to a high-risk area, a healthcare provider may order blood tests for confirmation. A notable symptom—intense bone and joint pain—has led to the disease earning the nickname “breakbone fever.”

Currently, there is no specific antiviral treatment for dengue; management focuses on alleviating symptoms. The CDC recommends the following if you suspect dengue fever:

• Rest as much as possible
• Take acetaminophen to manage fever and pain (avoid NSAIDs like aspirin and ibuprofen due to increased bleeding risk)
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids

Pay close attention to signs of severe dengue, which may surface 24 to 48 hours after the fever subsides. Immediate medical attention is crucial if any severe symptoms arise.

Preventing Dengue Fever

To reduce the risk of contracting dengue fever, it is vital to avoid mosquito bites, especially when traveling to areas with high dengue incidence. The CDC recommends these precautions:

• Use insect repellents registered with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
• Wear long-sleeved shirts and loose-fitting pants
• Treat clothing and gear with permethrin, an insect repellent
• Utilize mosquito nets if sleeping outdoors

The CDC also advises maintaining these precautions for up to three weeks post-return from high-risk areas. This time frame is crucial as it is possible for an infected person to transmit dengue to local mosquitoes if bitten.

Although a dengue vaccine exists, it is specifically recommended only for children aged 9 to 16 with laboratory-confirmed previous infections who live in endemic areas. Nevertheless, experts clarify that the CDC’s health alert is intended to inform rather than discourage travel, emphasizing the importance of informed travel practices.

Dr. Bensaci encourages travelers to embrace the joy of vacations while remaining mindful. “Learning and knowledge are the best tools for prevention,” she concluded.