CAMERON COUNTY, TX — Health officials announced that Texas recorded its first locally transmitted case of dengue fever in 2024, as the state faces its highest number of cases in decades.
According to the Texas Department of State Health Services, the infected resident of Cameron County, located in the southernmost part of the state, was diagnosed with the mosquito-borne virus.
"This has been a highly active year for dengue virus globally," DSHS said in a statement on November 25. "As of today, there have been 106 travel-associated dengue cases in Texas, including one fatality."
The agency noted that the number of cases in Texas this year is the highest since 2002.
Dengue fever is typically found in tropical and subtropical regions, including the South Pacific, Asia, the Caribbean, South and Central America, and parts of Africa. The virus is transmitted to humans through the bite of infected mosquitoes, with approximately 25% of those infected showing symptoms.
The virus is transmitted to humans through the bite of infected mosquitoes.
Symptoms, which can develop 3 to 14 days after exposure, include fever, nausea, vomiting, rash, muscle and joint pain, headaches, and pain behind the eyes. While most people recover within two weeks, roughly 5% of symptomatic cases develop severe infections that can be fatal without treatment.
Since 2013, Texas has reported 665 dengue cases, 40 of which were locally acquired in counties such as Cameron, Hidalgo, Starr, Val Verde, Webb, and Willacy. Health officials emphasize that mosquitoes remain active in many parts of Texas well into the fall and winter months.
DSHS is urging residents to take precautions against mosquito bites to prevent the spread of the virus. This includes wearing long sleeves and pants, using insect repellent, and eliminating standing water around homes, which serves as a breeding ground for mosquitoes.
"Don't give mosquitoes a biting chance," the agency advised.
"Take steps to protect yourself and your family from dengue, both here in Texas and while traveling to areas where the virus is common."
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