United States: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) alerted the public to increasing dengue fever cases in American travelers whose numbers are likely to grow during 2025. The Hill reported 3,484 dengue cases among travelers in 2024 which became the highest number on record when compared to previous years with an increase of 84%, as reported by Reuters.
High Transmission in U.S. Territories
Dengue fever continues to show high transmission levels across U.S. territories specifically in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands since these areas match transmission patterns of other high-risk areas in the Americas. Puerto Rico issued a public health emergency in March 2024 which reported 6,291 cases resulting in 13 deaths while hospitalizing more than half of the affected patients.
CDC Warns About Elevated Risk Of Dengue Fever
— The Wall Street Chronicles (@ThewallstChron) March 20, 2025
The CDC has issued a warning about rising dengue fever cases in the U.S. and globally, citing elevated transmission rates especially in North America, South America, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. As of March 10, over 13… pic.twitter.com/VTQCycZvZ5
Travelers Face Increased Risk in Warmer Months
People encounter the greatest danger of dengue when they travel to tropical or subtropical regions during the months from March until September. The World Health Organization reports ongoing rising numbers of dengue infections throughout the Americas during 2024 resulting in 7.6 million cases and 3.4 million confirmed cases with 16,000 severe dengue cases and 3,000 reported fatalities.
Dengue Hotspots in the U.S.
A dengue outbreak emergency declaration still exists in the U.S. Virgin Islands since its establishment in August 2024. The total number of reported dengue cases reached 208 in 2024 followed by 30 additional cases that emerged at the start of 2025. The CDC reports Florida together with California and New York as the leaders in travel-related dengue infections, as reported by Reuters.
Public Health Concerns & Prevention Efforts
Dengue cases keep growing while the United States maintains constant transmission throughout its territories so health officials recommend travel safety measures including insect repellent use and screening or air conditioning control. The CDC predicts infection rates to grow further if preventive strategies are not adopted before 2025.