On July 31, CDC’s National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Disease (NCEZID) escalated its 2024 dengue outbreak response from a program-led response to a center-led response. As of July 23, U.S. states and territories reported 2,869 dengue cases, with nearly one-third associated with travel. In Puerto Rico, 1,918 locally transmitted cases have been reported so far this year, with 1,178 individuals already hospitalized. This intense outbreak precedes the typical dengue season that occurs from August through November.
CDC has begun preparedness efforts for potential outbreaks within the contiguous United States while supporting many response activities in Puerto Rico, including dengue surveillance, vector control, laboratory testing, and communication to the public on prevention strategies. As part of its communication efforts, CDC is sharing weekly messages with updated dengue information and resources.
Dengue virus outbreaks occur in many countries of the world, including North America, South America, Africa, the Middle East, Asia, and the Pacific Islands. This year, more than 10.8 million cases of dengue have been reported in North, Central, and South America and the Caribbean, which is double the number reported in 2023. Dengue is spread to people through the bite of an infected mosquito. The best way to prevent dengue is to avoid mosquito bites by using insect repellent, wearing loose-fitting, long-sleeved shirts and pants, and taking steps to control mosquitoes around dwellings.