Texas child is first reported US measles death in a decade as outbreak hits more than 130

Deadly Dengue Fever Rises As The US Cuts All Climate-Health Funding

This story was originally published by Grist. Sign up for Grist's weekly newsletter here.

Last week, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, or CDC, issued an urgent alert about dengue fever, a painful and sometimes deadly mosquito-borne illness common in tropical and subtropical parts of the world. Some 3,500 travelers from the United States contracted dengue abroad in 2024, according to the CDC, an 84 percent increase over 2023. "This trend is expected to continue," the agency said, noting that Florida, California, and New York, in that order, are likely to see the biggest surges this year.

On Thursday, the United Kingdom Health Security Agency put out a similar warning, noting that there were 900 cases of travel-related dengue in the U.K. In 2024, almost 300 more infections than the preceding year. The two reports relayed a similar array of statistics about dengue, its symptoms, and rising caseloads. But the U.K. Health Security Agency included a crucial piece of information that the CDC omitted: It noted why cases are breaking records. "The rise is driven by climate change, rising temperatures, and flooding," it said.

In the past, the CDC has readily acknowledged the role climate change plays in the transmission of dengue fever — but the political conditions that influence scientific research and federal public health communications in the U.S. Have undergone seismic shifts in the months since President Donald Trump took office. The new administration has purged federal agency websites of mentions of equity and climate change and sought to dismantle the scientific infrastructure that agencies like the CDC use to understand and respond to a range of health risks — including those posed by global warming.

Last week, ProPublica reported that the National Institutes of Health, or NIH — the largest source of funding for medical research in the world — will shut down all future funding opportunities for climate and health research. It remains to be seen whether ongoing grants for research at this intersection will be allowed to continue. A few days later, U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Announced his agency plans to cull 10,000 people from its workforce, including new cuts at CDC, an agency that was established in 1946 in order to prevent a different mosquito-borne illness, malaria, from spreading across the U.S.

Taken together, the suite of directives will prevent the U.S. And other nations whose scientists rely on NIH funding from preparing for and responding to dengue fever at the exact moment when climate change is causing cases of the disease to skyrocket. The abrupt subversion of the personnel and institutions tasked with responding to a threat like dengue bodes poorly for future health crises as climate change causes carriers of disease like mosquitoes, fungi, and ticks to expand their historical ranges and infiltrate new zones.

Related Story

Trump and RFK Jr. Have moved to fire thousands of highly trained employees at the CDC and other agencies since Friday.

"The disease pressure in the last couple of years is very dramatic and it's going in one direction — up," said Scott O'Neill, founder of the World Mosquito Program, a nonprofit organization that infects mosquitoes with a naturally occurring bacteria to fight disease in 14 countries. For example, Brazil — the country that consistently registers the highest number of dengue cases — recorded a historic 10 million cases last year. The country reported 1.7 million cases in 2023.

The two types of mosquitoes that most often infect humans with dengue, Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus, thrive in the warm, moist conditions made more prevalent by rising atmospheric temperatures caused by fossil fuel combustion. The vast majority of annual dengue cases are asymptomatic, but about 25 percent of people infected, depending on the population, develop symptoms like fever, headache, and joint pain. A small percentage of those cases result in severe sickness, hospitalization, and even death.

The number of severe dengue infections corresponds roughly to the size of the pool of people infected every year. In 2023, when there were 6 million total dengue infections, 6,000 people died. In 2024, a year when there were more than 13 million cases registered globally, over 8,000 people died.

There is no cure for dengue. Patients in wealthier countries generally fare better than patients in developing regions with limited access to medical interventions like blood transfusions and places where waves of dengue patients overwhelm already-strained healthcare systems. Two dengue vaccines are available in some countries, but both have serious limitations in terms of efficacy and how long they confer immunity.

The NIH began taking climate change and health research seriously in 2021, and the institutes have funded dozens of studies that probe every aspect of the climate-dengue connection since. NIH-funded researchers have sought to understand how warmer temperatures shift the geographic ranges of Aedes mosquitoes, which factors predict dengue outbreaks, and how communities can protect themselves from dengue following extreme weather events.

These studies have taken place in the southeastern U.S., where dengue is becoming more prevalent, and internationally, in countries like Peru and Brazil, where dengue is a near-constant threat. The NIH has also funded studies that bring the world closer to finding medical and technological interventions: more effective vaccines and genetically engineered mosquitoes that can't develop dengue, among other solutions.

"Disease doesn't have national borders," said an American vector biologist who has received funding from the NIH in the past. She asked not to have her name or affiliated academic institution mentioned in this story out of fear of reprisal from the Trump administration. "I'm worried that if we're not studying it, we're just going to watch it continue to happen and we won't be prepared."

Americans aren't just bringing cases of dengue fever home with them from trips abroad; the disease is also spreading locally with more intensity in warmer regions of the country and its territories. Last March, Puerto Rico declared a public health emergency amid an explosion of cases on the island. By the end of 2024, Puerto Rico registered over 6,000 cases — passing the threshold at which an outbreak officially becomes an epidemic. More than half of the known infections led to hospitalization. Close to 1,000 cases have been reported there so far this year, a 113 percent increase over the same period in 2024. California and Florida reported 18 and 91 locally-acquired cases of dengue, respectively, last year. California registered its first-ever locally-acquired case of dengue in 2023.

"Dengue is already found in many places in the U.S. That have never seen this disease before," said Renzo Guinto, a physician and head of the Planetary Health Initiative at the Duke-NUS medical school in Singapore. "To combat this emerging climate-related health threat, U.S. Scientists must collaborate with others working in dengue overseas. With no resources and capacity, how can such collaboration occur?"

There are limited non-government sources of funding for climate and health research. The money that is available to American researchers is primarily offered by private foundations like the Gates Foundation and the Wellcome Trust. The grants these philanthropies offer annually pale in comparison to the $40 million Congress made available annually through the NIH for climate and health research in the two years before Trump took office. Researchers will be forced to compete for a small pool of funding in the coming years, which will likely lead to fewer studies and less innovation in the years to come. "The end result will be that much less of this work would be done — we would all tell you to the detriment of Americans long term," said the vector biologist.

As dengue spreads with more intensity in the countries where it is already common and slips across borders into zones like North America where the disease is still comparatively rare, it's clear countries need to expand their arsenals of disease-fighting weapons. But the U.S. Appears to be leading a charge in the opposite direction, with thousands of lives at stake.

"We're at a time when we need acceleration of innovation and solutions to very pressing global problems," said O'Neill, whose organization receives funding from governments around the world, including the U.S. "It's not the time to let ideology drive science rather than let science drive itself."

This article originally appeared in Grist.

Grist is a nonprofit, independent media organization dedicated to telling stories of climate solutions and a just future. Learn more at Grist.Org

We're not backing down in the face of Trump's threats.

As Donald Trump is inaugurated a second time, independent media organizations are faced with urgent mandates: Tell the truth more loudly than ever before. Do that work even as our standard modes of distribution (such as social media platforms) are being manipulated and curtailed by forces of fascist repression and ruthless capitalism. Do that work even as journalism and journalists face targeted attacks, including from the government itself. And do that work in community, never forgetting that we're not shouting into a faceless void – we're reaching out to real people amid a life-threatening political climate.

Our task is formidable, and it requires us to ground ourselves in our principles, remind ourselves of our utility, dig in and commit.

As a dizzying number of corporate news organizations – either through need or greed – rush to implement new ways to further monetize their content, and others acquiesce to Trump's wishes, now is a time for movement media-makers to double down on community-first models.

At Truthout, we are reaffirming our commitments on this front: We won't run ads or have a paywall because we believe that everyone should have access to information, and that access should exist without barriers and free of distractions from craven corporate interests. We recognize the implications for democracy when information-seekers click a link only to find the article trapped behind a paywall or buried on a page with dozens of invasive ads. The laws of capitalism dictate an unending increase in monetization, and much of the media simply follows those laws. Truthout and many of our peers are dedicating ourselves to following other paths – a commitment which feels vital in a moment when corporations are evermore overtly embedded in government.

Over 80 percent of Truthout's funding comes from small individual donations from our community of readers, and the remaining 20 percent comes from a handful of social justice-oriented foundations. Over a third of our total budget is supported by recurring monthly donors, many of whom give because they want to help us keep Truthout barrier-free for everyone.

You can help by giving today. Whether you can make a small monthly donation or a larger gift, Truthout only works with your support.

This piece was reprinted by Truthout with permission or license. It may not be reproduced in any form without permission or license from the source.

On Bluesky? We created a starter pack to make it easy for you to follow Truthout folks there.

CDC Issues High Alert As Deadly Dengue Fever Spreads In Puerto Rico And US Virgin Islands

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a high alert as dengue fever continues to spread in Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands. The mosquito-borne disease, which thrives in warm and humid climates, poses a significant risk as the US enters the peak of its warm season. Health officials are urging the public, healthcare providers, and local authorities to take proactive measures to prevent outbreaks and minimize transmission.

Dengue fever, a potentially life-threatening viral disease, is expected to see a sharp increase in cases across several US territories. According to the CDC, the risk of both travel-associated and locally acquired infections has grown substantially due to increasing travel patterns during the spring and summer months. The agency warns that the virus may spread beyond endemic regions and reach non-endemic areas, including states like Florida, Texas, Hawaii, Arizona, and California.

The situation has raised concerns not only in Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands but also in other territories such as American Samoa, the Federated States of Micronesia, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, and the Republic of Palau. These areas, characterized by tropical and subtropical climates, provide an ideal environment for the Aedes mosquitoes, the primary vectors responsible for transmitting the dengue virus.

Understanding Dengue Fever: Symptoms and Transmission

Dengue fever is caused by the dengue virus (DENV), a member of the Flavivirus family. It is transmitted through the bite of infected female Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes. These mosquitoes are most active during the early morning and late afternoon, making it crucial for individuals to take protective measures throughout the day.

Common symptoms of dengue fever include:

High fever

Severe headaches

Joint and muscle pain

Skin rash

Nausea and vomiting

Fatigue and weakness

In severe cases, dengue can develop into dengue hemorrhagic fever or dengue shock syndrome, both of which can lead to internal bleeding, organ failure, and even death. The CDC emphasizes that early detection and prompt medical intervention are essential in preventing severe complications.

Why The Risk is Growing in the US

As the US experiences rising temperatures and increased urbanization, the risk of dengue outbreaks in non-endemic regions continues to climb. Aedes mosquitoes breed in stagnant water, which is commonly found in poorly maintained urban areas. Increased international travel further exacerbates the problem, as infected travelers returning from dengue-endemic countries may unknowingly introduce the virus into new regions.

According to CDC reports, locally acquired dengue cases have already been detected in multiple states, indicating that the virus is establishing a foothold in certain areas. Given the presence of dengue-spreading mosquitoes in various parts of the country, the likelihood of small outbreaks is growing.

Preventative Measures and Public Awareness

To combat the spread of dengue fever, the CDC has outlined several key preventive measures:

Eliminate Mosquito Breeding Sites: Remove stagnant water from containers, tires, flower pots, and other sources where mosquitoes can lay eggs.

Use Mosquito Repellents: Apply insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus to exposed skin.

Wear Protective Clothing: Opt for long-sleeved shirts and long pants, especially during peak mosquito activity hours.

Install Window and Door Screens: Prevent mosquitoes from entering homes by using screens and sealing potential entry points.

Seek Medical Attention Early: If experiencing symptoms, consult a healthcare professional promptly to prevent severe complications.

Bottomline

The CDC's high alert underscores the urgent need for heightened awareness and preventive action. Public health departments and government agencies are ramping up efforts to monitor and control mosquito populations while encouraging communities to take part in mitigation strategies.

As the world grapples with increasing climate-related health threats, dengue fever remains a pressing concern. The spread of the disease in Puerto Rico, the US Virgin Islands, and other territories serves as a stark reminder of the importance of proactive public health measures. By staying informed, taking preventative actions, and cooperating with health authorities, individuals can help curb the spread of dengue and protect themselves from this dangerous viral infection.

Disclaimer

All possible measures have been taken to ensure accuracy, reliability, timeliness and authenticity of the information; however Onlymyhealth.Com does not take any liability for the same. Using any information provided by the website is solely at the viewers' discretion. In case of any medical exigencies/ persistent health issues, we advise you to seek a qualified medical practitioner before putting to use any advice/tips given by our team or any third party in form of answers/comments on the above mentioned website.

Dangerous Fever Strikes Popular Vacation Destinations

Health officials caution spring breakers as Puerto Rico cases increase 113 percent in popular vacation destinations

As travelers finalize plans for tropical getaways, health officials are tracking a concerning rise in dengue fever cases across destinations favored by American tourists. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has issued a travel advisory highlighting a 15 percent increase in dengue cases throughout the Americas compared to the five-year average, with over 760,000 reported infections since January.

Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands—both frequent destinations for spring breakers and vacation travelers—are experiencing particularly significant outbreaks. Puerto Rico has documented 936 cases in 2025, representing a dramatic 113 percent increase compared to the same period last year. The U.S. Virgin Islands has reported 30 cases, prompting both territories to maintain public health emergency declarations first established last March.

The continental United States has not escaped the trend, with Florida reporting 45 cases, California documenting 10 cases, and New York identifying 6 cases. Health experts note that increased travel during vacation seasons naturally amplifies transmission risks as more Americans visit affected regions and potentially return carrying the virus.

How dengue affects the body and why it can turn serious

Dengue fever, transmitted by infected mosquitoes, ranks among the most prevalent mosquito-borne illnesses worldwide, with millions of cases reported annually across tropical and subtropical regions. The Americas alone recorded 13 million cases and 8,200 deaths in 2024, underscoring the potential severity of this disease.

Most people infected with dengue will develop symptoms within two weeks after a mosquito bite, though only about one in four infected individuals will actually show signs of illness. When symptoms do appear, they typically persist for two to seven days and include:

High fever that can spike to 104°F or higher, intense headache (particularly with pain behind the eyes), severe muscle and joint discomfort (sometimes described as "breakbone fever"), widespread skin rash that appears as the fever subsides, and nausea and vomiting that may interfere with hydration.

While many people recover without complications, approximately one in 20 infected individuals progress to severe dengue—a potentially life-threatening condition. Certain populations face heightened risks, including infants, pregnant women, older adults, and people with compromised immune systems.

What makes dengue particularly tricky is the existence of four distinct virus types or serotypes. Previous infection with one type does not provide immunity against the others. In fact, subsequent infections with different serotypes can actually increase the risk of developing severe complications—a phenomenon that puzzles many travelers who may have experienced mild dengue previously.

The warning signs that require immediate medical attention

Recognizing when dengue has progressed to a dangerous stage can save lives. Health officials advise seeking emergency care immediately if any of these severe symptoms develop:

Intense abdominal pain or tenderness that persists or worsens, repeated vomiting (three or more episodes within 24 hours), bleeding from the nose or gums without injury, presence of blood in vomit or stool, and extreme fatigue, restlessness, or confusion.

Medical experts classify dengue as a hemorrhagic fever because severe cases can interfere with blood clotting mechanisms. This disruption can lead to internal bleeding, dangerously low blood pressure, organ failure, and potentially death if not treated promptly.

The most dangerous period often occurs as the fever begins to subside—usually 24 to 48 hours after temperature normalizes. Many patients mistakenly believe they're recovering when they're actually entering the critical phase where vigilance becomes essential.

What travelers should do if they suspect infection

For travelers who develop symptoms consistent with dengue fever, health officials recommend a specific approach to care:

Rest as much as possible to support the immune system's response. Take acetaminophen (Tylenol) to manage fever and discomfort. Avoid aspirin, ibuprofen, and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, which can increase bleeding risks. Focus on maintaining hydration with water and fluids containing electrolytes. And most importantly, seek medical evaluation, especially when traveling abroad.

Healthcare providers typically diagnose dengue based on a combination of symptoms, travel history, and laboratory tests. While no specific antiviral treatment exists for dengue, appropriate supportive care significantly improves outcomes, particularly for severe cases.

Travelers should understand that symptoms might not appear until after returning home, making it crucial to inform healthcare providers about recent travel history when seeking medical care for fever or other symptoms.

Five essential prevention strategies that actually work

Since no widely available vaccine exists for most travelers, prevention focuses entirely on avoiding mosquito bites. Health officials recommend these five practical strategies for travelers visiting affected regions:

Apply EPA-registered insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR3535 to exposed skin, following product instructions carefully and reapplying as directed.

Wear loose-fitting, light-colored clothing that covers arms and legs, especially during early morning and late afternoon hours when dengue-spreading mosquitoes are most active.

Treat clothing and gear with permethrin before traveling, or purchase pre-treated items designed to repel insects through multiple washings.

Sleep in accommodations with air conditioning and screened windows when possible, or use bed nets when these features aren't available.

Eliminate standing water around lodging areas, as even small amounts can become mosquito breeding grounds.

The CDC also highlights the importance of maintaining these precautions for at least three weeks after returning home. This extended vigilance prevents potentially infected travelers from becoming sources of local transmission if bitten by mosquitoes in their home communities.

How this outbreak compares to previous years

The current surge in dengue cases reflects broader patterns influenced by climate change, increased global travel, and urban development in tropical regions. Rising global temperatures have expanded the range of mosquito species capable of transmitting dengue, while bringing longer transmission seasons to affected areas.

Public health records indicate that major dengue outbreaks tend to follow cyclical patterns, with cases typically peaking every few years. However, the intensity of recent outbreaks has raised concerns among health authorities monitoring these trends.

Prior to the pandemic, 2019 marked a record year for dengue in the Americas with over 3.1 million cases. While current numbers haven't reached those levels, the rapid increase early in 2025 suggests this year could potentially approach similar figures if trends continue.

Practical advice for those with upcoming travel plans

Health officials emphasize that their advisory aims to inform travelers rather than discourage travel entirely. With proper precautions, most visitors to affected regions can enjoy their trips while minimizing infection risks.

Beyond the standard mosquito prevention measures, travelers headed to dengue-affected regions should:

Research the specific dengue situation at their destination before departure. Pack appropriate protective clothing and sufficient repellent for the entire trip. Select accommodations with screened windows or air conditioning when possible. Consider purchasing travel health insurance that covers medical evacuation. Know the location of reliable medical facilities at their destination.

For most travelers, the benefits of international experiences outweigh the manageable risks of dengue fever when appropriate precautions are taken. By staying informed and prepared, travelers can make the most of tropical destinations while protecting their health during this period of increased dengue activity.

As one infectious disease specialist notes, the goal isn't to frighten people away from travel but rather to ensure they travel with awareness and take simple steps that significantly reduce their chances of bringing home an unwanted souvenir in the form of this increasingly common tropical illness.

---