On Tuesday, March 18, 2025, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a Health Alert Network (HAN) Health Update to provide additional information to healthcare providers, public health departments, and the public about the ongoing risk of dengue virus (DENV) infections and updates to testing recommendations in the United States.

Dengue activity remains high in some parts of the United States and globally, with many countries reporting higher rates of dengue in 2024 and 2025 than in previous years.

Healthcare providers, public health departments, and the public are urged to continue to take steps to prevent, detect, diagnose, and respond to dengue in the United States. 

Fast Facts

• Dengue is a viral infection that is transmitted to humans through the bite of infected mosquitoes.
• While many dengue infections are asymptomatic or produce only mild illness, the virus can occasionally cause more severe cases, and even death.

Symptoms

• Most people with dengue have no symptoms or only mild symptoms and will get better in one (1) to two (2) weeks. In rare cases, dengue can be severe and lead to death.
• If symptoms occur, they usually begin four (4) to ten (10) days after infection and last for two (2) to seven (7) days.
  • Symptoms include:
    • fever (>104°F);
    • headache;
    • pain behind the eyes;
    • muscle and joint pain;
    • nausea;
    • vomiting;
    • swollen glands; and
    • rash.

Resources for Healthcare Providers

• Clinical Testing Guidance
• Clinical Management Course
• Clinical Management Pocket Guide

Resources for Public Health Professionals

• Reviewing Medical Records
• Dengue Case Investigation Form
• Dengue Communication Resources
• Response in Non-Endemic Areas of the United States

Source: CDC (Abridged/Edited)

Source: WHO (Abridged/Edited)