Texas’ first reported case of dengue fever in 2024 was recorded as the state faces its highest annual case count in decades, officials said.
The mosquito-borne virus was found in a resident of Cameron County, which is the southernmost county in the state, according to the Texas Department of State Health (DSHS).
“It has been a very active year for dengue worldwide. As of today, there have been 106 travel-related cases of dengue, including a death reported in Texas,” the agency said Monday.
“This is the highest annual number of crimes in Texas since 2002,” it added. “Precautions should be taken to prevent mosquito bites in Texas and when traveling to countries where dengue is prevalent.”
LOS ANGELES COUNTY REPORTS SMALL LOCAL DENGUE FEVER CLUSTER
A locally transmitted case of dengue fever has been recorded in Cameron County, Texas. (iStock)
The DSHS says the dengue virus – which is commonly found in areas such as “the South Pacific, Asia, the Caribbean, South and Central America, and Africa” - is spread by mosquitoes and about 25% of those infected have symptoms.
“After three to 14 days, infected people may experience fever, nausea, vomiting, rash, muscle pain, joint pain, bone pain, pain behind the eyes and headache. Most people recover completely within two weeks,” according to the center. “However, about 1 in 20 people with symptoms develop a serious condition that can be fatal if left untreated.”
CDC WARNS OF MOSQUITO DRIVEN COCKPIT AS SPIKE SETS
A worker is seen releasing smoke during a campaign to spray mosquitoes that spread the dengue virus, June 24, in San Salvador, El Salvador. (Images/Getty Images)
Texas health officials are now urging the public to “don’t give mosquitoes a chance to bite” by wearing long sleeves and pants, using insect repellent, and removing standing water that provides a breeding ground for mosquitoes.
Dengue fever is usually spread by mosquito bites in countries where the disease is common. (iStock)
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“Since 2013, there have been 665 cases of dengue fever in Texas, including 40 cases in Cameron, Hidalgo, Starr, Val Verde, Webb and Willacy counties. – DSHS.
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