Republished with full copyright permissions from The Washington Daily Chronicle.

Governments and public health experts around the world are becoming increasingly concerned about the significant rise in dengue infections globally. With over five million cases reported in 2023 across 80 countries and territories, the disease, spread by infected Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, has garnered particular attention due to its potential to cause severe illness and in some cases, death.

The symptoms of dengue fever can range from mild flu-like symptoms to more severe manifestations such as high fever, nausea, vomiting, and debilitating muscle and joint pain, earning the disease its colloquial name “breakbone fever.” Alarmingly, if left untreated, the mortality rate of dengue can reach 20%, particularly for severe cases.

The rise in dengue cases can be linked to various factors, including the resurgence of global travel post-COVID-19, the impact of the El Niño weather phenomenon, and the expanding reach of Aedes aegypti mosquitoes due to rising global temperatures driven by climate change. Urbanization has also contributed to the transmission of dengue, as densely populated areas with inadequate infrastructure create optimal breeding and feeding grounds for the disease-carrying mosquitoes.

Amidst this concerning trend, healthcare systems worldwide are grappling with the strain caused by the surge in dengue cases, prompting concerns about the effectiveness of governmental responses to the disease. Fumigation, a traditional method of mosquito control, has seen diminishing returns as mosquitoes develop resistance to chemical compounds. However, initiatives such as the World Mosquito Program’s innovative use of Wolbachia-carrying mosquitoes and ongoing efforts to track and predict dengue outbreaks offer hope in the fight against the disease.

In response to the evolving dengue threat, governments and health organizations have been advocating preventive measures such as using insect repellent, wearing protective clothing, and eliminating stagnant water in and around homes. Additionally, two dengue vaccines—Qdenga and Dengvaxia—are available in certain regions, providing a means of protection for vulnerable populations. For those already infected, the World Health Organization recommends staying hydrated, getting adequate rest, and seeking medical attention if severe symptoms arise.

As the worldwide fight against dengue fever intensifies, the need for comprehensive and community-driven strategies to address the disease becomes increasingly apparent. By understanding the symptoms, transmission methods, and prevention options associated with dengue, individuals can take proactive steps to safeguard their health and contribute to mitigating the spread of this concerning global health threat.