Rising Dengue Fever Cases Threaten Spring Break Travelers, Warns CDC

As spring break season unfolds, travelers are flocking to southern destinations, but they should be aware of an increasing health risk posed by mosquitoes. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention cautions that cases of dengue fever are climbing globally, raising alarm among those venturing abroad.

On March 18, the CDC issued an advisory through its Health Alert Network, indicating that dengue activity remains high not only in several U.S. territories, such as Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, but also globally.

Dengue Fever at a Glance

The CDC classified dengue fever as a level 1 health alert, advocating for travelers to practice standard precautions. The agency highlighted that the peak travel time in spring and summer aligns with elevated dengue transmission periods in numerous countries. This alignment increases the chances of both travel-related and homegrown cases of the illness emerging in the United States.

Precautions Against Dengue

To mitigate risks, the CDC recommends that individuals avoid mosquito bites. Suggested measures include:

Applying an EPA-registered insect repellent
Wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants in outdoor settings
Sleeping in environments that are air-conditioned or have screened windows

These preventive steps are critical, particularly as many countries have reported higher-than-normal instances of dengue fever during 2024 and 2025, according to the CDC.

Countries Experiencing Outbreaks

Several nations have documented significant spikes in dengue fever cases among travelers returning to the U.S. These countries include:

Brazil
Burkina Faso
Colombia
Cuba
Ecuador
Fiji
French Polynesia
Guadeloupe
Guatemala
Iran
Mexico
Pakistan
Panama
Philippines
Saint Lucia
Sudan

Dengue fever is a viral infection transmitted through bites from infected mosquitoes. High-density populations in regions such as the Americas, Africa, Asia, and the Pacific Islands are typical of this disease’s prevalence.

According to the CDC, more than 13 million dengue cases were reported across North, Central, South America, and the Caribbean in 2024 alone. Notably, local transmission cases were documented in states like California, Texas, and Florida during the previous year.

Recognizing Symptoms

Individuals infected with dengue fever may experience a range of symptoms, typically emerging within two weeks of being bitten. Common manifestations include:

Aches and pains (in the eyes, muscles, joints, or bones)
Nausea
Vomiting
Rashes

Most patients endure symptoms for two to seven days before making a full recovery. While many experience mild illness, dengue can escalate to severe forms, resulting in additional complications such as intense headaches, joint pain, abdominal pain, fever, and, in rare cases, death.

Dr. Mark Fischer, a regional medical director with International SOS, emphasized the varying severity, noting that while dengue fever often presents as a mild illness, it can become severe.

Treatment and Prevention

Currently, there is no specific antiviral treatment for dengue, as recognized by the CDC. Medical professionals suggest resting, consuming acetaminophen for pain and fever relief, staying hydrated, and consulting a physician if necessary. In critical cases, particularly for children aged 9 to 16 who have previously contracted dengue and live in regions with ongoing outbreaks, a vaccine is available.

As spring break approaches, heightened awareness about dengue fever and related precautions is essential for travelers heading into warmer climates. With the CDC alerting the public to take preventive action, ensuring personal safety becomes a priority.

Taking Charge of Your Health

Travelers are encouraged to remain vigilant and proactive in safeguarding their health during the vacation season. By implementing preventive measures and staying informed about potential health threats, individuals can enjoy their spring break while minimizing the risks associated with dengue fever.

The surge in dengue fever cases highlights the importance of public health awareness and traveler responsibility. Preparing for potential health risks contributes to safer and more enjoyable travels during the spring season.