Puerto Rico declares dengue epidemic after cases spike

On Monday, government leaders in Puerto Rico declared a dengue epidemic after a spike in cases of the mosquito-borne disease hit the island.

From the start of the year through March 10, there were 549 cases, including 341 hospitalizations and 29 severe cases, according to the most recent data provide by the Puerto Rico Department of Health. Cases are concentrated in cities including San Juan, Bayamon, Guaynabo and Carolina.

Between 2010 and 2020, more than 30,000 dengue cases were reported from four U.S. territories, with Puerto Rico reporting the most. In 2012, Puerto Rico reported 199 deaths, which was the last time the commonwealth declared a dengue epidemic.

Dengue fever poses a significant public health threat in many parts of the world, particularly in regions with high mosquito populations and limited access to health care.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said it is working with the Puerto Rico Department of Health and the Puerto Rico Vector Control Unit on surveillance of the virus and on training health providers. The CDC is also involved with cleanup campaigns, using insecticides where appropriate, and in education efforts.

The Puerto Rico Department of Health said it is working to enhance surveillance, laboratory, vector control and outreach interventions.

Dengue can cause high fever, severe headache, joint and muscle pain, rash and, in severe cases, death.