Dengue Fever Cases Surge Across US, Florida and California at High Risk

Federal health officials are warning of a rise in dengue fever cases in the United States, with Florida and California identified as key hotspots for both travel-associated and locally acquired infections. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention note that spring and summer travel increases the risk of importing dengue, especially as outbreaks have been declared in U.S. territories like Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The illness, spread by infected mosquitoes, can be severe, particularly for vulnerable groups such as pregnant women, the elderly, and those with underlying health conditions. Preventative measures, including removing standing water to reduce mosquito breeding and taking precautions when traveling to affected regions, are strongly advised. A vaccine is available for certain high-risk U.S. territories, but travelers and residents in the mainland are urged to remain vigilant.