U.S. Dengue Cases Reach 1,455 as Virginia and Florida Report 2 Local Infections
Updated
Updated · The Independent · Aug 6
U.S. Dengue Cases Reach 1,455 as Virginia and Florida Report 2 Local Infections
3 articles · Updated · The Independent · Aug 6
Summary
Federal data shows 1,455 U.S. dengue cases so far, after Virginia and Florida each reported a locally acquired infection in the past week.
CDC data and a May study point to a sustained rise since the pandemic, with 2024 cases running 359% above the 2010-2023 annual average as warmer temperatures expand mosquito range.
Virginia said its first local patient had been near a traveler infected overseas and reported no evidence of ongoing transmission, keeping the state's immediate risk low.
Dengue is usually spread by Aedes aegypti mosquitoes; about 1 in 20 patients develop severe illness, though U.S. deaths remain rare, with six reported in 2024.
Prevention still centers on repellents and covering exposed skin, while treatment is mainly rest, fluids and hospital IV care for severe cases.