Dengue cases in the Americas reach 12.6 million as outbreak intensifies

Dengue fever cases in the Americas have surged to 12.6 million in 2024, nearly three times the number from 2023. The rise is linked to climate changes, including higher temperatures and erratic weather, which have expanded mosquito habitats. Deaths from dengue have also increased sharply, with over 7,700 fatalities reported this year, a more than 200 percent rise from last year's 2,467. The outbreak is now the deadliest since records began in 1980, affecting areas previously free of the virus. Governments are enhancing prevention efforts, with Trinidad and Tobago imposing fines for mosquito breeding. Vaccines are available but mainly for children and those previously infected, limiting their impact on transmission. Preventive measures remain essential to control the outbreak.