### Dengue Fever: Current Trends and Risks **Overview** Dengue fever, also known as “breakbone fever,” is a mosquito-borne illness that has reached record levels this year in popular travel destinations worldwide. The CDC has issued an alert to healthcare providers to be vigilant for symptoms that may initially appear as a common fever, nausea, or muscle aches. **Symptoms and Diagnosis** Diagnosing dengue fever is crucial as it can lead to severe complications like organ failure and blood vessel damage, causing bleeding under the skin and from the gums. Symptoms typically appear 5 to 7 days after infection and include fever, nausea, vomiting, rash, muscle aches, joint pain, and headache. **Current Statistics** In 2024, 745 U.S. travelers have been diagnosed with dengue fever. The Americas have recorded over 9.7 million cases in the first half of the year, double the total for 2023. Puerto Rico has declared a public health emergency with about 1,500 cases. U.S. states like Florida, Hawaii, Texas, Arizona, and California have also reported cases. **Risk Factors** Travelers to areas where dengue is common, such as Mexico, the Caribbean, South America, parts of Africa, and Asia, are at higher risk. The virus is endemic in over 100 countries. Factors like climate change, urbanization, and population movement contribute to the increase in dengue cases. **Prevention** To prevent mosquito bites, wear clothing that covers the skin and apply insect repellent to exposed skin. Use insect repellent after applying sunscreen. Treat clothing and gear with permethrin. **Advice for Healthcare Providers** The CDC advises healthcare providers to test for dengue fever in patients with a fever who have recently visited areas where the virus is common. While there are no specific treatments for dengue fever, symptoms can be managed with supportive care like acetaminophen for fever and fluids to prevent dehydration.