Dengue fever is sweeping across the Caribbean and the Americas, with a record 12.6 million suspected cases of the mosquito-transmitted virus reported this year, nearly triple the number from last year

Summary

Dengue fever has hit a record 12.6 million suspected cases across the Americas in 2024, nearly triple last year’s figures, with over 7,700 deaths reported—a 200% surge.

Climate change, population growth, poor sanitation, and unplanned urbanization are fueling its spread. Brazil leads with 10 million cases, followed by Argentina and Mexico.

Dengue has even reached the U.S., with cases in California, Florida, and Texas.

Vaccines are available in some countries but have limited impact, emphasizing the need for preventive measures like reducing stagnant water where mosquitoes breed. Children are particularly affected.