An unprecedented dengue fever outbreak has been declared by the World Health Organization (WHO) after the first half of 2023 saw an “all-time record” of 10 million cases. The increase in cases was three times higher than the same period in 2023, with more than 16,000 severe cases and 3,000 deaths. The Americas were the most affected region, with over 7 million cases by April’s end.
One of the infected individuals brought to a hospital emergency room in the United States was nine-year-old Genesis Polanco Marte, who exhibited symptoms such as fever, body aches, and dehydration. Scientists have linked this outbreak to climate change, which has accelerated the life cycle and range of the Aedes aegypti mosquito that carries the virus.
Dengue fever has overwhelmed hospitals worldwide, including those in Brazil and Bangladesh. Puerto Rico declared a public health emergency due to rising cases. The WHO warned that dengue fever could spread to temperate regions like South America if not addressed promptly.
Climate change has been identified as a significant factor in this surge of dengue fever cases. Higher global temperatures are favorable for Aedes aegypti mosquitoes that transmit the virus. These mosquitoes thrive in hot and humid conditions, increasing the risk of disease transmission. In urban areas where air conditioning is not common in Puerto Rico, residents are at increased risk of exposure to mosquitoes due to higher temperatures leading to increased mosquito breeding rates.
Vaccination remains a challenge when fighting dengue fever due to its complexity and multiple serotypes. Dengvaxia is currently approved for use in the United States but requires previous infection with dengue fever for eligibility. Access to vaccines is limited due to halted production and uncertain availability of alternative vaccines.