Dengue Fever Alert Issued for Spring Break Destinations

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is warning travelers about an increase in dengue fever cases, particularly in destinations popular for spring break. Dengue fever is a viral illness transmitted through mosquito bites. Symptoms can include high fever, severe headache, joint and muscle pain, rash, and nausea. In rare cases, dengue fever can lead to severe complications.

The CDC recommends that travelers to affected areas take steps to prevent mosquito bites. These steps include using insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE), para-menthane-diol (PMD), or 2-undecanone. Wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants, and staying in accommodations with air conditioning or screened windows and doors can also help reduce the risk of mosquito bites.

Travelers experiencing symptoms of dengue fever after returning from their trip should seek medical attention immediately and inform their healthcare provider about their travel history. The CDC is closely monitoring the situation and will provide updates as necessary. For more information about dengue fever, visit the CDC website.