Puerto Rico declares dengue epidemic following spike in infections

The U.S. territory, with a population of 3.2 million, has reported at least 549 cases so far this year, compared to just 1,293 for all of 2023. The capital, San Juan, has seen the majority of these cases.

Over 340 individuals have been hospitalized due to the mosquito-borne virus, according to the island's health department. This marks the first dengue epidemic declared in Puerto Rico since 2012.

The World Health Organization reports that over 5 million dengue cases emerged globally in 2023, with nearly 80% concentrated in the Western Hemisphere.

So far this year, the region has witnessed roughly 3 million cases. Health officials attribute this rise to factors like increased rainfall, humidity, and heat, potentially linked to climate change.

Dengue infection can cause severe symptoms including debilitating headaches, fever, vomiting, rashes, and more. While most cases are mild, severe forms can lead to plasma leakage and even death. (ILKHA)