In 2024, the El Niño weather pattern has led to a troubling surge in mosquito populations. This increase is fueling a rise in mosquito-borne diseases like Dengue fever—in fact, Latin America alone has already reported a staggering 400% jump in Dengue cases compared to the average over the past five years.
Given the growing frequency of this disease and its prominence in the news, you might be wondering if Dengue fever here in New Jersey. Fortunately, the chances of contracting Dengue fever in our area are quite low. Nonetheless, it's important to understand what the disease is, how it spreads, and the steps you can take to protect yourself.
How Does Dengue Fever Spread?
Some people mistakenly think that Dengue fever can spread directly from person to person, but that's not the case. The virus is transmitted solely through the bites of Aedes mosquitoes that are already infected. However, when a mosquito bites someone carrying the disease, the infected mosquito can then spread the virus to other people.
Since Dengue fever mainly spreads through mosquito bites, the best way to reduce your risk is to focus on preventing mosquito bites by:
- Wearing EPA-approved mosquito repellants
- Avoiding the outdoors during dawn or dusk
- Wearing protective clothing like long pants and sleeves
- Eliminating sources of standing water that mosquitoes use to breed
- Investing in professional mosquito control
Dengue Fever Symptoms
Dengue fever is a viral infection spread by mosquitoes that causes symptoms similar to the flu. It’s carried by Aedes mosquitoes, which are mainly found in tropical and subtropical areas around the world. The illness is marked by symptoms like:
- Severe headaches
- Joint and muscle pin
- High fevers
- Bleeding
- Skin rashes
- Pain behind the eyes
Dengue fever can progress to Dengue hemorrhagic fever, a more serious condition that can lead to severe complications and even be life-threatening. If you’re experiencing these symptoms and suspect you might have contracted a mosquito-borne illness, it’s important to see a doctor as soon as possible.
Should I Be Worried About Dengue Fever in New Jersey?
At present, the risk of contracting Dengue fever in the United States is extremely low—about as likely as winning the lottery. In 2023, Florida reported just two cases of local transmission.
Nevertheless, these cases serve as a reminder that mosquito-borne diseases can potentially spread to new areas. There are several theories about why Dengue fever is emerging in regions where it was previously uncommon. For the latest information and updates on Dengue fever in the U.S., you can always check the CDC’s reports.
Invest in Mosquito Control Today
Though Dengue fever poses a serious risk in various parts of the world, the likelihood of encountering it in New Jersey remains quite low for now. Still, if you're noticing an uptick in mosquito activity around your home or community, it's understandable to be concerned. That's where Cooper Pest Solutions comes in.
Our expert mosquito control services are specifically designed to keep your environment safe and comfortable by effectively managing mosquito populations. From targeted treatments to preventive measures, we offer comprehensive solutions tailored to your needs. Call us today to get started!
