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The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has issued a dengue warning in more than 15 countries.
The “Level 1: Practice Standard Precautions” alert was posted Monday.
“Dengue is a year-round risk in many parts of the world, with outbreaks typically occurring every two to five years,” the agency stated. “Some countries are reporting higher numbers of cases of the disease.”
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The announcement comes as Americans continue their spring break travel. Countries such as the Maldives and Cooks Island in New Zealand are among those listed in the warning.
Dengue fever it's a virus It is transmitted through the bites of an infected mosquito, which typically causes pain, nausea, vomiting and skin rashes, according to the CDC.
The CDC has issued a level 1 dengue warning for 16 countries, including the Maldives (pictured). (iStock)
The fever is common in tropical and subtropical areas of the world. It is typically found in the Americas, Africa, the Middle East, Asia and the Pacific Islands, as well as many Caribbean destinations.
Symptoms and treatment
Typical symptoms Symptoms of dengue include aches and pains (in the eyes, muscles, joints or bones), nausea, vomiting and rash, which are usually experienced within two weeks of being bitten, according to the CDC.
Most people experience symptoms for two to seven days before recovering.
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“It is usually a milder illness, but it can be serious, causing headachesjoint pain, fever, abdominal pain and even death,” Dr. Mark Fischer, regional medical director for International SOS, a leading medical and security services company, previously told Fox News Digital.
Severe cases of dengue can cause bleeding from the nose or gums and vomiting blood. According to the CDC, one in 20 people who get a fever develops severe dengue.
Dengue is transmitted by mosquito bites. The fever is common in tropical and subtropical areas of the world. (iStock)
There is currently no medication to treat dengue. Infected people are advised to rest, take paracetamol for pain and fever, stay hydrated, and consult a doctor.
There is a vaccine available for American children ages 9 to 16 who previously tested positive for dengue and live in areas where infection is common.
Prevention of diseases transmitted by mosquitoes.
Travelers returning from dengue-endemic areas are urged to take precautions to avoid mosquito bites for three weeks. If dengue symptoms develop within two weeks of returning, travelers are advised to seek medical evaluation.
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Experts also recommend removing stagnant water where mosquitoes breed. Some examples include buckets, plants that trap water (such as bromeliads), small containers, planters, rain barrels, and even glasses left outside.
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Fischer added, “It is important to use insect repellent that contains DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus, as these ingredients are the most effective at repelling mosquitoes and other insects.”
“Those who live in areas with mosquito populations should try to wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants, especially in the evening and at night when mosquitoes are most active, to avoid being bitten on exposed skin.”
According to the CDC, dengue fever typically causes pain, nausea, vomiting, and skin rashes. (iStock)
Keeping mosquito nets on windows and doors is also a good way to prevent insects from entering and causing spread of diseasessaid.
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“If you live in an area that has a high level of mosquito-borne diseases, you should use mosquito nets when you sleep and eliminate stagnant water in and around the house, as stagnant bodies of water are breeding grounds for insects,” Fischer added.
