In recent years, dengue fever has become a major health concern worldwide. With over 5 million cases reported in 2023 and more than 5,000 deaths, the mosquito-borne disease has put the spotlight on healthcare officials to closely monitor its progress.
The re-emergence of dengue outbreaks in 2024 has raised questions about why it is emerging in new areas and what can be done to prevent and treat it. During a recent interview with Vismita Gupta-Smith on WHO’s Science at 5 show, Dr. Raman Velayudhan provided valuable insights on the topic.
According to the World Health Organization, dengue has become endemic in many countries in South America, Central America and the Caribbean. In the United States, states like Florida and Puerto Rico reported cases of locally acquired and travel-related dengue fever in 2024. Although there is an approved dengue vaccine available in the US, access to it may require testing before admission.
As the fight against dengue fever continues, it is imperative that healthcare workers and the public stay informed and take the necessary precautions to prevent the spread of this potentially dangerous disease. This includes using insect repellent, removing standing water around homes and businesses, and being vigilant for symptoms such as fever, headache, and joint pain.