Sunday, May 18, 2025

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has recently updated its travel advisory concerning dengue fever, warning of rising cases in several countries. This advisory has been issued in light of an uptick in reported cases of dengue fever in nations such as Brazil, Colombia, Fiji, Mexico, and Saint Lucia, along with others experiencing significant outbreaks. The CDC urges travelers to take necessary precautions when visiting these regions.

Dengue fever is a viral infection transmitted through the bites of Aedes mosquitoes, which thrive in tropical and subtropical climates. While the disease is often associated with certain seasons, outbreaks can occur year-round, especially in areas with favorable conditions for mosquito breeding. The CDC’s advisory emphasizes that dengue fever continues to pose a health risk to travelers, particularly in areas where mosquito populations are higher than usual.

Common symptoms of dengue fever include high fever, severe headaches, pain behind the eyes, joint and muscle aches, and a rash. These symptoms may be confused with those of other viral illnesses, making it difficult to diagnose the disease without proper medical evaluation. In some cases, dengue can progress to a more severe form known as dengue hemorrhagic fever, which can lead to life-threatening complications such as bleeding, organ failure, and shock. Immediate medical attention is required to treat severe dengue.

The CDC has listed several countries currently affected by dengue outbreaks. These countries include Brazil, Colombia, Fiji, Mexico, and Saint Lucia, in addition to nations like Burkina Faso, Comoros, Cuba, Ecuador, French Polynesia, Guadeloupe, Guatemala, Iran, Pakistan, Panama, Philippines, Sudan, and Tonga. A map provided by the CDC illustrates areas with reported higher-than-average dengue cases, helping travelers identify regions with elevated risk levels.

To reduce the chances of contracting dengue fever, the CDC recommends taking measures to prevent mosquito bites. The most effective prevention strategy is to use insect repellents that contain DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Travelers should also wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and socks to minimize skin exposure, particularly during early morning and late afternoon hours when Aedes mosquitoes are most active. Additionally, staying in air-conditioned or well-screened accommodations is a good way to reduce the risk of mosquito contact.

For travelers visiting areas with high dengue risk, the CDC mentions that a vaccine is available in some locations and could provide added protection. However, the vaccine is only recommended for individuals who have had previous dengue infections. It is not intended for those who have never contracted the virus. Travelers should consult their healthcare provider to determine whether the vaccine is appropriate for them, based on their medical history and travel plans.

While there is no antiviral treatment available for dengue fever, medical professionals focus on supportive care to manage the symptoms. One of the key aspects of treatment is maintaining proper hydration, especially if fever and other symptoms lead to fluid loss. Drinking plenty of fluids helps prevent dehydration, which is a common concern with dengue. Over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen can be used to alleviate fever and pain, but nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen should be avoided as they can increase the risk of bleeding in severe cases.

The CDC’s advisory has been classified under “Level 1 – Practice Usual Precautions,” the lowest level of concern. This indicates that while travelers should take precautions to avoid mosquito bites, the risk of contracting dengue fever remains manageable. It is far less severe than a “Level 4 – Avoid All Travel” warning, which is issued when the risks are more substantial.

For those planning to visit countries with elevated dengue risk, the CDC recommends checking its “Travelers’ Health” section for the latest updates on health advisories. This section provides travelers with detailed information on health risks, disease outbreaks, and vaccination recommendations for specific destinations.

By following the CDC’s guidelines, which include using insect repellent, wearing protective clothing, and staying in well-protected accommodations, travelers can significantly lower their risk of contracting dengue fever. Although the disease remains a concern in certain regions, travelers can still visit these destinations safely by taking necessary precautions and staying informed about the latest health alerts.