There are many reasons to look forward to summertime, from beach weather to planning the perfect getaway.
Then, there are those pesky mosquitoes that try to land on you, ruining all the fun.
As if the swat, itch, and scratch routine weren't enough of a nuisance, Americans have something else to look out for during the summer season ― dengue, a virus that spreads through mosquito bites.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a health advisory warning due to the increase in dengue virus infections this year, said a USA TODAY story. From Jan. 1 to June 24 this year, countries in the Americas have reported over 9.7 million dengue cases. This is double the 4.6 million cases reported in 2023.
Puerto Rico has declared a health emergency with 1,489 reported cases. As of June 24, 745 cases were reported among U.S. travelers. Globally, the numbers are on the rise.
According to the CDC, up to 400 million people are infected with dengue each year. Almost half of the world lives in areas with a risk of dengue.
Here's what to know about dengue and its symptoms, as well as ways to prevent contracting it.
What is dengue?
Dengue is a viral disease caused by any of the four related viruses: dengue 1, 2, 3, and 4, according to the CDC. Virus types include dengue-1, dengue-2, dengue-3, and dengue-4. Transmission is common in parts of the world with tropical and subtropical climates.
What to know about dengue in NC
In the U.S., dengue transmission has been limited, with small outbreaks identified in Florida, Hawaii, and Texas, said a USA TODAY story. Transmission has also been reported in Arizona and California in the last two years.
The CDC classified the following six U.S. territories and freely associated states as areas where dengue transmission is frequent: Puerto Rico, American Samoa, the U.S. Virgin Islands, the Federated States of Micronesia, the Republic of Marshall Islands and the Republic of Palau.
The CDC did note that there have been 16 cases of dengue reported in North Carolina so far in 2024. That includes one to four cases in Buncombe County, and the same for Transylvania and Jackson counties. As for bordering states, there have been 14 cases reported in Georgia, 13 in Virginia, six in Tennessee and five in South Carolina.
What are dengue symptoms?
One in four individuals with dengue will get sick. Symptoms of the virus typically begin within two weeks after being bitten by an infected Aedes mosquito and may consist of the following symptoms lasting anywhere from two to seven days:
- Aches and pains
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Rash
- Any warning sign
- Mild dengue symptoms may be confused with other illnesses that cause fever
Dengue treatment
Although there is no specific medicine to treat dengue, the CDC recommends resting as much as you can. Taking acetaminophen may help control fever and relieve pain. To stay hydrated, drink plenty of fluids whenever you can. If you come down with a fever, seek medical attention and make sure to inform your healthcare provider about any recent travels.
When should I seek emergency care?
Severe dengue is a medical emergency. Warning signs may begin 24-48 hours after your fever has gone away. Immediately visit a local clinic or the emergency room if you or a family member suddenly experience the following symptoms:
- Belly pain, tenderness
- Bleeding from the nose or gums
- Blood in vomit or stool
- Feeling irritable, tired, or restless
- Vomiting at least three times in 24 hours
What is dengue hemorrhagic fever (DCF)?
Dengue hemorrhagic fever is a fever lasting from two to seven days. Its symptoms may occur alongside other illnesses (for example, abdominal pain, headache, nausea, vomiting). Per SCDHEC, this particular virus stage is followed by bruising easily and other types of skin hemorrhages, bleeding nose or gums, and possible internal bleeding. The capillaries, which are the body's smallest blood vessels, may become leaky, allowing for the fluid component to escape from the blood vessels. This may result in the circulatory system's failure, as well as shock. If not treated, it may lead to death. DCF's average fatality rate is 5%.
Dengue prevention, according to SCDHEC
∎ Reduce the number of adult mosquitoes in your home by draining, filling, or eliminating sites containing standing water. You should also discard or empty containers with standing water.
∎ Keep mosquitoes outside by using air conditioning and ensuring window/door screens are repaired.
∎ Although there are mosquitoes that bite during the day (especially in wooded or shaded areas), the majority of mosquitoes bite during dawn, dusk, twilight, and night. Avoid exposure during these times and in these areas.
∎ Wear insect repellent when venturing outdoors. This is the best way to prevent mosquito bites. Child and pregnant women are also encouraged to wear it.
∎ If the weather permits, cover up with long-sleeved shirts and pants.
Is there a dengue vaccine?
There is no vaccine approved to prevent dengue at this time. However, there are multiple trials underway to develop an effective vaccine.
Nina Tran covers trending topics for The Greenville News. Reach her via email at ntran@gannett.com
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