Dengue Virus Outbreak In Colorado: What You Need To Know Now
Mosquitos are known to be the deadliest creature alive in Colorado, and federal health officials are warning doctors in the Centennial State that the tiny bloodsuckers are spreading a viral fever across the state that is a symptom of Dengue Virus.
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According to the CDC, the majority of cases reported in America have been in states such as Puerto Rico (1,498 cases), Florida (244 cases), New York (143 cases), Massachusetts (62), California (2 cases), and here in Colorado (34 cases since 2023).
What is Dengue Virus?
The World Health Organization says Dengue (aka break-bone fever) is a virus that spreads from mosquitoes to people. The National Institute of Health says the virus damages blood vessels, causes fever, and can result in difficulty breathing. The virus is carried by the Yellow Fever mosquito (Aedes aegypti) and the Asian Tiger mosquito (Aedes albopictus), both found in Colorado.
What are the Symptoms of Dengue Virus?
According to CDC just 1 in 4 humans show symptoms the first time they have Dengue. 1 in 20 can develop severe Dengue which can be fatal. Symptoms according to Johns Hopkins include sudden high fever, severe headaches, pain behind the eyes, nausea, vomiting, and a rash that starts three to four days following the onset of fever.
Which Colorado Counties Have Reported Cases of Dengue Virus?
The CDC reports the following counties in Colorado have reported cases of Dengue fever in 2024:
- Weld County, Colorado: 1 to 4 cases
- Larimer County, Colorado: 1 to 4 cases
- Boulder County, Colorado: 1 to 4 cases
- Jefferson County, Colorado: 1 to 4 cases
- Summit County, Colorado: 1 to 4 cases
- Garfield County, Colorado: 1 to 4 cases
- La Plata County, Colorado: 1 to 4 cases
- Archuleta County, Colorado: 1 to 4 cases
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Gallery Credit: Wesley Adams
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Gallery Credit: Wes Adams