Fall Allergies Are Real. And They’re Getting Worse.
Dangerous Fever Strikes Popular Vacation Destinations
Health officials caution spring breakers as Puerto Rico cases increase 113 percent in popular vacation destinations
As travelers finalize plans for tropical getaways, health officials are tracking a concerning rise in dengue fever cases across destinations favored by American tourists. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has issued a travel advisory highlighting a 15 percent increase in dengue cases throughout the Americas compared to the five-year average, with over 760,000 reported infections since January.
Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands—both frequent destinations for spring breakers and vacation travelers—are experiencing particularly significant outbreaks. Puerto Rico has documented 936 cases in 2025, representing a dramatic 113 percent increase compared to the same period last year. The U.S. Virgin Islands has reported 30 cases, prompting both territories to maintain public health emergency declarations first established last March.
The continental United States has not escaped the trend, with Florida reporting 45 cases, California documenting 10 cases, and New York identifying 6 cases. Health experts note that increased travel during vacation seasons naturally amplifies transmission risks as more Americans visit affected regions and potentially return carrying the virus.
How dengue affects the body and why it can turn seriousDengue fever, transmitted by infected mosquitoes, ranks among the most prevalent mosquito-borne illnesses worldwide, with millions of cases reported annually across tropical and subtropical regions. The Americas alone recorded 13 million cases and 8,200 deaths in 2024, underscoring the potential severity of this disease.
Most people infected with dengue will develop symptoms within two weeks after a mosquito bite, though only about one in four infected individuals will actually show signs of illness. When symptoms do appear, they typically persist for two to seven days and include:
High fever that can spike to 104°F or higher, intense headache (particularly with pain behind the eyes), severe muscle and joint discomfort (sometimes described as "breakbone fever"), widespread skin rash that appears as the fever subsides, and nausea and vomiting that may interfere with hydration.
While many people recover without complications, approximately one in 20 infected individuals progress to severe dengue—a potentially life-threatening condition. Certain populations face heightened risks, including infants, pregnant women, older adults, and people with compromised immune systems.
What makes dengue particularly tricky is the existence of four distinct virus types or serotypes. Previous infection with one type does not provide immunity against the others. In fact, subsequent infections with different serotypes can actually increase the risk of developing severe complications—a phenomenon that puzzles many travelers who may have experienced mild dengue previously.
The warning signs that require immediate medical attentionRecognizing when dengue has progressed to a dangerous stage can save lives. Health officials advise seeking emergency care immediately if any of these severe symptoms develop:
Intense abdominal pain or tenderness that persists or worsens, repeated vomiting (three or more episodes within 24 hours), bleeding from the nose or gums without injury, presence of blood in vomit or stool, and extreme fatigue, restlessness, or confusion.
Medical experts classify dengue as a hemorrhagic fever because severe cases can interfere with blood clotting mechanisms. This disruption can lead to internal bleeding, dangerously low blood pressure, organ failure, and potentially death if not treated promptly.
The most dangerous period often occurs as the fever begins to subside—usually 24 to 48 hours after temperature normalizes. Many patients mistakenly believe they're recovering when they're actually entering the critical phase where vigilance becomes essential.
What travelers should do if they suspect infectionFor travelers who develop symptoms consistent with dengue fever, health officials recommend a specific approach to care:
Rest as much as possible to support the immune system's response. Take acetaminophen (Tylenol) to manage fever and discomfort. Avoid aspirin, ibuprofen, and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, which can increase bleeding risks. Focus on maintaining hydration with water and fluids containing electrolytes. And most importantly, seek medical evaluation, especially when traveling abroad.
Healthcare providers typically diagnose dengue based on a combination of symptoms, travel history, and laboratory tests. While no specific antiviral treatment exists for dengue, appropriate supportive care significantly improves outcomes, particularly for severe cases.
Travelers should understand that symptoms might not appear until after returning home, making it crucial to inform healthcare providers about recent travel history when seeking medical care for fever or other symptoms.
Five essential prevention strategies that actually workSince no widely available vaccine exists for most travelers, prevention focuses entirely on avoiding mosquito bites. Health officials recommend these five practical strategies for travelers visiting affected regions:
Apply EPA-registered insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR3535 to exposed skin, following product instructions carefully and reapplying as directed.
Wear loose-fitting, light-colored clothing that covers arms and legs, especially during early morning and late afternoon hours when dengue-spreading mosquitoes are most active.
Treat clothing and gear with permethrin before traveling, or purchase pre-treated items designed to repel insects through multiple washings.
Sleep in accommodations with air conditioning and screened windows when possible, or use bed nets when these features aren't available.
Eliminate standing water around lodging areas, as even small amounts can become mosquito breeding grounds.
The CDC also highlights the importance of maintaining these precautions for at least three weeks after returning home. This extended vigilance prevents potentially infected travelers from becoming sources of local transmission if bitten by mosquitoes in their home communities.
How this outbreak compares to previous yearsThe current surge in dengue cases reflects broader patterns influenced by climate change, increased global travel, and urban development in tropical regions. Rising global temperatures have expanded the range of mosquito species capable of transmitting dengue, while bringing longer transmission seasons to affected areas.
Public health records indicate that major dengue outbreaks tend to follow cyclical patterns, with cases typically peaking every few years. However, the intensity of recent outbreaks has raised concerns among health authorities monitoring these trends.
Prior to the pandemic, 2019 marked a record year for dengue in the Americas with over 3.1 million cases. While current numbers haven't reached those levels, the rapid increase early in 2025 suggests this year could potentially approach similar figures if trends continue.
Practical advice for those with upcoming travel plansHealth officials emphasize that their advisory aims to inform travelers rather than discourage travel entirely. With proper precautions, most visitors to affected regions can enjoy their trips while minimizing infection risks.
Beyond the standard mosquito prevention measures, travelers headed to dengue-affected regions should:
Research the specific dengue situation at their destination before departure. Pack appropriate protective clothing and sufficient repellent for the entire trip. Select accommodations with screened windows or air conditioning when possible. Consider purchasing travel health insurance that covers medical evacuation. Know the location of reliable medical facilities at their destination.
For most travelers, the benefits of international experiences outweigh the manageable risks of dengue fever when appropriate precautions are taken. By staying informed and prepared, travelers can make the most of tropical destinations while protecting their health during this period of increased dengue activity.
As one infectious disease specialist notes, the goal isn't to frighten people away from travel but rather to ensure they travel with awareness and take simple steps that significantly reduce their chances of bringing home an unwanted souvenir in the form of this increasingly common tropical illness.
CDC Issues High Alert As Deadly Dengue Fever Spreads In Puerto Rico And US Virgin Islands
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a high alert as dengue fever continues to spread in Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands. The mosquito-borne disease, which thrives in warm and humid climates, poses a significant risk as the US enters the peak of its warm season. Health officials are urging the public, healthcare providers, and local authorities to take proactive measures to prevent outbreaks and minimize transmission.
Dengue fever, a potentially life-threatening viral disease, is expected to see a sharp increase in cases across several US territories. According to the CDC, the risk of both travel-associated and locally acquired infections has grown substantially due to increasing travel patterns during the spring and summer months. The agency warns that the virus may spread beyond endemic regions and reach non-endemic areas, including states like Florida, Texas, Hawaii, Arizona, and California.
The situation has raised concerns not only in Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands but also in other territories such as American Samoa, the Federated States of Micronesia, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, and the Republic of Palau. These areas, characterized by tropical and subtropical climates, provide an ideal environment for the Aedes mosquitoes, the primary vectors responsible for transmitting the dengue virus.
Understanding Dengue Fever: Symptoms and TransmissionDengue fever is caused by the dengue virus (DENV), a member of the Flavivirus family. It is transmitted through the bite of infected female Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes. These mosquitoes are most active during the early morning and late afternoon, making it crucial for individuals to take protective measures throughout the day.
Common symptoms of dengue fever include:
In severe cases, dengue can develop into dengue hemorrhagic fever or dengue shock syndrome, both of which can lead to internal bleeding, organ failure, and even death. The CDC emphasizes that early detection and prompt medical intervention are essential in preventing severe complications.
Why The Risk is Growing in the USAs the US experiences rising temperatures and increased urbanization, the risk of dengue outbreaks in non-endemic regions continues to climb. Aedes mosquitoes breed in stagnant water, which is commonly found in poorly maintained urban areas. Increased international travel further exacerbates the problem, as infected travelers returning from dengue-endemic countries may unknowingly introduce the virus into new regions.
According to CDC reports, locally acquired dengue cases have already been detected in multiple states, indicating that the virus is establishing a foothold in certain areas. Given the presence of dengue-spreading mosquitoes in various parts of the country, the likelihood of small outbreaks is growing.
To combat the spread of dengue fever, the CDC has outlined several key preventive measures:
The CDC's high alert underscores the urgent need for heightened awareness and preventive action. Public health departments and government agencies are ramping up efforts to monitor and control mosquito populations while encouraging communities to take part in mitigation strategies.
As the world grapples with increasing climate-related health threats, dengue fever remains a pressing concern. The spread of the disease in Puerto Rico, the US Virgin Islands, and other territories serves as a stark reminder of the importance of proactive public health measures. By staying informed, taking preventative actions, and cooperating with health authorities, individuals can help curb the spread of dengue and protect themselves from this dangerous viral infection.
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This Bug Bite Could Ruin Your Dream Vacation
Summer vacations to tropical destinations promise sun, fun, and memories. But some travelers are bringing home an unwelcome souvenir that's gaining attention among health experts. The Oropouche virus, nicknamed "sloth fever," is emerging as a concern for anyone packing their bags for South and Central America or Caribbean getaways.
The sneaky virus you haven't heard of yetWhile most of us worry about more famous mosquito-borne illnesses when traveling, Oropouche has been quietly making the rounds below our radar. This virus primarily spreads through the bite of tiny biting midges – those annoying no-see-ums that somehow find their way through your screen door – and certain mosquito species that call tropical regions home.
The virus has historically kept itself mostly in South and Central America along with Caribbean islands, places known for their beautiful beaches and lush landscapes. But recently, several travelers have brought it back to the U.S. After their vacations, raising eyebrows among health officials.
When sloth fever hits, you'll definitely slow downIf you're wondering why they call it "sloth fever," just imagine how you'll feel if you catch it. The nickname perfectly captures how this virus can transform even the most energetic person into someone who can barely move from bed.
The symptoms typically show up about 3 to 8 days after you've been bitten by an infected insect. At first, you might think you've just caught a nasty flu. Your body temperature climbs, your head pounds with an intense headache, and your muscles and joints ache like you've run a marathon without training.
Many people also experience chills, nausea, and vomiting that make it impossible to keep food down. Your eyes might become sensitive to light, adding another layer of misery to the experience. Most healthy adults recover within a week or two, though the fatigue can linger like an unwanted houseguest.
When it gets seriousFor most people, Oropouche virus means a week of feeling terrible before gradually improving. But in some cases, particularly among people with weakened immune systems, the virus can take a more dangerous turn.
The most concerning complication is encephalitis, which happens when the infection spreads to the brain and causes swelling. This can lead to confusion, seizures, and in rare cases, long-term neurological problems.
Pregnant women face additional risks from Oropouche virus. Some evidence suggests the infection may increase the chances of miscarriage or other pregnancy complications. This makes prevention especially important for women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant before traveling to affected regions.
The vacation bug that follows you homeWhat makes health experts particularly concerned is how easily this virus can hitch a ride back to the United States with returning travelers. Most people don't even know they have it until they're back home unpacking their suitcases and suddenly feel like they've been hit by a tropical bus.
Since many doctors in the U.S. Aren't routinely testing for Oropouche, it often gets misdiagnosed as flu or another viral infection. This means we might not be catching all the cases that make it to American soil, making it harder to track the virus's spread.
Protecting yourself without canceling your dream vacationBefore you delete your tropical vacation plans, know that there are practical ways to reduce your risk without missing out on paradise. The best protection starts with outsmarting the bugs that spread the virus.
Pack plenty of insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Apply it religiously, especially during dawn and dusk when biting insects are most active. Wearing long sleeves and pants when outdoors can create a physical barrier between your skin and hungry bugs.
Where you stay matters too. Accommodations with air conditioning and good window screens can dramatically reduce your exposure to biting insects. Sleeping under bed nets treated with insecticide adds another layer of protection, particularly in more rustic settings.
What to do if sloth fever finds you anywayIf you develop fever, headache, and body aches within two weeks of returning from a trip to Central or South America or the Caribbean, don't just brush it off as jet lag or travel fatigue. See a healthcare provider and be sure to mention your recent travels.
While there's no specific treatment for Oropouche virus, early supportive care can help manage symptoms and prevent complications. This typically includes plenty of fluids, rest, and over-the-counter pain relievers to reduce fever and discomfort.
The bottom line on this emerging travel concernAs more Americans venture back to international destinations post-pandemic, awareness of lesser-known threats like Oropouche virus becomes increasingly important. The good news is that with some basic precautions, you can still enjoy your tropical adventure without bringing home this unwanted souvenir.
Pack your bug spray right alongside your sunscreen, be mindful of where those tiny biting insects might be lurking, and know the symptoms to watch for when you return. A little preparation goes a long way toward ensuring your vacation memories include only the experiences you actually wanted.
The next time someone asks about your tropical vacation plans, you'll not only have gorgeous destinations to talk about but also the knowledge to keep yourself healthy while enjoying paradise. Because the only fever you want from your trip should be the good kind, dance floor optional.
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