Dengue Cases Surge 359% in the U.S., Raising Public Health Concerns
Dengue fever, a mosquito-borne disease historically confined to tropical regions, has seen a dramatic rise in the United States. According to the CDC, 3,798 cases were reported in 2024, marking a 359% increase compared to the annual average of 828 cases from 2010 to 2023. While most cases were travel-related (97.2%), a concerning 2.8% were locally acquired, indicating the growing risk of domestic transmission. The disease, often referred to as 'breakbone fever' due to its severe joint and bone pain, is transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, which have expanded their range due to climate change. Infections were reported in states like Florida, California, Texas, and even New Jersey, with over 100 locally acquired cases documented. The World Health Organization also noted a global surge in dengue cases, peaking at over 14 million in 2024, a historic high. 
