The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) says a Cameron County resident has been identified as the first locally acquired case of dengue virus in Texas this year, marking a notable development amid a record-breaking year for global dengue infections.
Texas has reported 106 travel-associated dengue cases in 2024, including one death — the highest annual case count since 2002.
Public health officials are urging Texans to take precautions against mosquito bites both locally and while traveling to areas where dengue is endemic, including the South Pacific, Asia, the Caribbean, South and Central America, and Africa.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) had earlier issued warnings to health care providers about an increased risk of dengue infections, citing an unprecedented global surge and higher- than-expected cases among U.S. travelers.
Dengue virus, transmitted through the bite of infected mosquitoes, causes symptoms in about 25% of cases.
Symptoms, which can appear three to 14 days after exposure, include fever, rash, nausea, vomiting, muscle and joint pain, and headaches.
While most recover within two weeks, about one in 20 symptomatic cases develops into severe dengue, which can be fatal if untreated.
“It is important for health care providers to consider a diagnosis of dengue virus and test for it if their patient has symptoms consistent with the disease,” said Dr. Jennifer Shuford, commissioner DSHS. She noted that the CDC offers resources for clinical management, including a pocket guide.
The DSHS advises Texans to follow these preventive measures to avoid mosquito bites:
• Wear protective clothing: Long sleeves and pants create a barrier.
• Apply insect repellent: Use EPA-registered products containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus.
• Eliminate standing water: Regularly empty containers like buckets, plant pots, and rain gutters to prevent mosquitoes from breeding.
Additional steps include using air conditioning and ensuring door and window screens are intact.
Since 2013, Texas has reported 665 dengue cases, including 40 locally acquired infections in Cameron, Hidalgo, Starr, Val Verde, Webb, and Willacy counties.
With mosquitoes active into November and December in many areas, DSHS encourages individuals with symptoms to seek medical attention and report mosquito exposure to their providers.
