US Doctors Urged to Be Aware of Dengue as Cases Surge Globally

Health officials in the US are urging doctors to be vigilant about dengue fever as cases rise globally. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued an alert, emphasizing that travelers returning from dengue-affected areas may be infected, even if they don't exhibit symptoms initially. Dengue, a mosquito-borne illness, can cause flu-like symptoms, including fever, headache, muscle and joint pain, and rash. In severe cases, it can lead to dengue hemorrhagic fever, characterized by bleeding and shock. The CDC advises healthcare professionals to consider dengue in patients with relevant travel history, especially those with unexplained fever, rash, or other symptoms. This alert comes as dengue cases have been increasing worldwide, with a significant rise in the Americas. While dengue is not commonly spread locally in the US, the CDC stresses the importance of being aware of the potential for imported cases, particularly as travel patterns are returning to pre-pandemic levels.

Summary

"With dengue cases surging globally, US health officials are urging doctors to be alert for imported cases in patients with recent travel history to affected areas. The CDC recommends considering dengue in individuals presenting with unexplained fever, rash, or other related symptoms."