The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a warning to travelers regarding an uptick in dengue fever cases. This alarming mosquito-borne virus is ravaging communities and has proven to be especially devastating towards our most vulnerable populations. One of the world’s most prevalent infectious diseases. Each year, 390 million dengue infections occur around the world. The CDC encourages travelers to be informed and take steps to prevent illness, especially when visiting tropical and subtropical areas where dengue is prevalent.
Dengue fever, also spread by the Aedes mosquito, is common in tropical and subtropical climates. Zika virus has four different serotypes, and infection by any of them is sufficient to cause the disease. With summer vacation planning season upon us, the CDC has released a Public Health Notice that arrives just in time. It is imperative that all travelers are knowledgeable about the dangers of dengue fever.
Understanding Dengue Fever
Dengue fever often comes on unexpectedly, with the onset of a high fever. In reality it almost always causes debilitating migraines, retro-orbital pain, myalgias and arthralgias, as well as nausea and vomiting. Presence of a rash can be a sign of infection. In acute cases, dengue fever can progress to a more severe form known as dengue hemorrhagic fever. This potentially life-threatening condition affects the blood’s ability to clot. This can result in dramatic and catastrophic complications such as massive bleeding, oozing bleeding, bruising, or even death from shock.
Most severe occur in infants, pregnant women & adults ≥65 yrs. People who are immunocompromised are especially at risk as well. Infection with other serotypes of the virus previously makes you more likely to have a severe reaction. Dr. Ana Maria Bensaci, an expert in public health, points out that “if somebody has a new infection with a type that they didn’t have before, that’s what’s the highest risk for severe infection.”
Prevention Strategies
Preventing dengue fever mainly involves staying away from mosquitoes. Travelers are advised to use insect repellent containing DEET, wear loose-fitting clothing that covers the arms and legs, and utilize clothing treated with permethrin. These are all good reminders, but it’s important to apply these precautions with their full weight, particularly when traveling to regions where dengue is endemic.
“We want to make sure we can enjoy having vacation, summer break, and spring break, but in a mindful way,” Dr. Bensaci emphasizes the need for travelers to adopt preventive measures while still enjoying their time away from home. Knowledge of the environment and mosquito presence goes a long way in preventing exposure to the virus.
Treatment and Management
Although there is no specific antiviral treatment for dengue fever, supportive care is key to achieving recovery from this disease. Patients should remain as relaxed and well-hydrated as possible with ample fluid intake. Acetaminophen supplements can be used to control fever and reduce pain.
In severe cases, especially among those at higher risk, medical intervention may be necessary. Monitoring for symptoms that suggest worsening conditions—such as increased bleeding or severe abdominal pain—is vital. Dr. Bensaci underscores the importance of education in prevention: “We should all enjoy and travel and explore, but learning and knowledge is the best tool for prevention.”
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