The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Health Alert Network (HAN) update regarding the ongoing risk of dengue virus infections in the United States and internationally. The update highlights a significant increase in dengue cases, particularly in the Americas, and provides new guidance for healthcare providers on testing and diagnosis. With spring and summer travel approaching, health officials are emphasizing the need for vigilance in detecting, preventing, and managing dengue cases.
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Dengue virus transmission remains high in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, with outbreaks declared in both territories. In Puerto Rico, cases have exceeded outbreak thresholds since early 2024, leading to a public health emergency. Over 6,200 cases were reported last year, with more than half requiring hospitalization. As of March 7, 2025, cases have more than doubled compared to the same period in 2024. The U.S. Virgin Islands also saw continued local transmission, with 208 cases in 2024 and 30 reported so far in 2025. In the continental U.S., locally acquired cases were detected in Florida, California, and Texas in 2024, and travel-related cases increased by 84% from the previous year.
CDC officials are particularly concerned about the rise of the DENV-3 and DENV-4 serotypes, which have been linked to larger outbreaks and more severe clinical outcomes. The introduction of new serotypes in affected regions has historically led to increased dengue activity. The CDC urges healthcare providers to consider dengue in patients with fever and recent travel history and recommends using the CDC DENV-1-4 RT-PCR assay as the primary diagnostic tool.
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With the continued spread of dengue, public health departments are advised to strengthen surveillance and response efforts. New resources, including a job aid for reviewing medical records and guidance for investigating cases in non-endemic areas, have been made available. Health officials also emphasize the importance of mosquito control measures and public awareness campaigns to reduce transmission risks.
The CDC advises travelers to take precautions against mosquito bites both during travel and for three weeks after returning from areas with active dengue transmission. Additionally, individuals who develop symptoms such as fever, rash, and muscle pain should seek medical evaluation promptly. The agency continues to collaborate with state and local health departments to monitor and respond to dengue outbreaks across the U.S.
Article by multiple RFHC contributors, based upon information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
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