New York, USA – Health officials are sounding the alarm as cases of dengue fever in New York have surged to an all-time high, transmitted through infected mosquito bites. Currently, a total of 142 cases have been reported in New York, with 12 cases in Suffolk and up to four cases in Nassau.
According to Dr. Sharon Nachman, head of the Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases at Stony Brook Medicine, all the reported cases in New York are linked to travelers. This highlights the importance of caution while traveling this summer and being mindful of mosquito exposure, as the mosquitoes that transmit dengue are most active during dawn and dusk.
While New York’s local mosquitoes do not carry the dengue virus, Dr. Nachman warns that dengue-carrying mosquitoes can be found in other regions, such as Florida. These mosquitoes pose a significant risk of dengue transmission to individuals in affected areas.
Common symptoms of dengue fever include fever, nausea, and a rash, with severe cases potentially leading to shock, internal bleeding, and, in rare instances, death. While there is no specific cure for dengue, most individuals recover within a week of contracting the virus.
In response to the rising dengue cases, the Suffolk County Department of Health Services has issued warnings to residents about the disease. They emphasize the importance of protecting oneself from mosquito bites, particularly in regions where dengue is prevalent, such as parts of Central and South America, Mexico, and the Caribbean.
As the summer travel season approaches, Dr. Nachman advises travelers to take precautions, such as using insect repellents containing DEET, wearing protective clothing, and avoiding outdoor activities during peak mosquito activity times. These measures can significantly reduce the risk of dengue infection while traveling to affected regions.