Dengue

Dengue is a disease caused by a virus mainly spread through the bite of infected mosquitoes. The mosquitoes that carry the dengue virus are called Aedes mosquitoes. These mosquitoes become infected when they bite a person who already has dengue. Once infected, the mosquito can then transmit the virus to other people it bites.

For more information on mosquitoes in Georgia, please visit DPH Environmental Health's Insects and Diseases web page. 

For more information on mosquitos in the United States and the diseases they can spread, please visit the CDC's About Mosquitoes in the United States webpage.

Dengue symptoms can vary, but they typically include:

1. High Fever: Dengue often starts with a sudden, high fever.
2. Severe Headache: Intense headaches are a common symptom.
3. Pain Behind the Eyes: Many people with dengue experience pain or discomfort behind the eyes.
4. Joint and Muscle Pain: Aching muscles and joints are common, earning dengue the nickname "breakbone fever."
5. Nausea and Vomiting: Feeling queasy and vomiting can occur.
6. Skin Rash: Some people develop a rash, which may appear a few days after the fever starts.
7. Mild Bleeding: In some cases, dengue can cause mild bleeding, such as nosebleeds or gum bleeding.

It's important to note that symptoms can range from mild to severe, and severe cases can lead to a more critical condition known as dengue hemorrhagic fever or dengue shock syndrome. Because dengue can quickly progress from mild to severe, you should seek medical attention if you believe you have dengue. 

Currently, there is no specific antiviral medication to treat dengue. Treatment mainly focuses on relieving symptoms and providing supportive care. Here are some common approaches to treating dengue:

1. Stay Hydrated: Dengue can cause dehydration due to fever and vomiting. It's essential to drink plenty of fluids, such as water, oral rehydration solutions, or electrolyte beverages, to maintain hydration.
2. Pain Relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen (paracetamol) are often recommended to reduce fever and alleviate pain. Avoid using aspirin or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) as they can increase the risk of bleeding.
3. Rest: Getting enough rest is crucial for the body to recover from the infection. Adequate rest helps the immune system fight the virus.
4. Medical Monitoring: In severe cases, especially if symptoms worsen or complications arise, hospitalization may be necessary. Medical professionals will monitor the patient's condition closely and provide appropriate care.

Individuals with dengue need to seek medical attention promptly, especially if they experience severe symptoms or if the illness progresses to dengue hemorrhagic fever or dengue shock syndrome. Early detection and proper medical care can significantly improve outcomes for individuals with dengue. 

Preventing dengue involves avoiding mosquito bites and reducing the risk of exposure to the Aedes mosquitoes that carry the virus. Here are some practical ways to prevent getting dengue:

1. Use Mosquito Repellent: Apply an insect repellent on exposed skin and clothing. Look for repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus, as they are effective against mosquitoes.
2. Wear Protective Clothing: Wear long sleeves, long pants, socks, and closed shoes, especially during peak mosquito activity times, which are early morning and late afternoon.
3. Install Window and Door Screens: Use screens on windows and doors to prevent mosquitoes from entering living spaces.
4. Eliminate Standing Water: Aedes mosquitoes breed in standing water. Regularly empty, clean, or cover containers that collect and hold water, such as flower pots, buckets, and clogged gutters.
5. Use Mosquito Nets: If you're sleeping in an area with a high risk of dengue, consider using bed nets treated with insecticide to protect yourself while sleeping.
6. Stay in Air-Conditioned or Screened Accommodations: If you're in an area where dengue is prevalent, choose accommodations with air conditioning or screens on windows and doors.
7. Be Informed: Stay informed about the risk of dengue in your area and take necessary precautions. Follow public health guidelines and recommendations.

Practicing these preventive measures can significantly reduce the likelihood of contracting dengue. It's important to note that dengue is present in certain regions, so travelers should be especially cautious when visiting areas with a known risk of dengue transmission.

The diagnosis of dengue typically involves a combination of clinical evaluation, laboratory tests, and a patient's medical history. Here are the standard methods used for diagnosing dengue virus infection:

1. Clinical Assessment: Healthcare professionals assess the patient's symptoms, medical history, and any potential exposure to mosquitoes in regions where dengue is prevalent.
2. Blood Tests: Laboratory tests are crucial for confirming a dengue infection. The two primary types of blood tests used are:
   1. Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR): This test detects the genetic material of the dengue virus in the blood. It is particularly useful in the early stages of infection.
   2. Serology Test: This test looks for antibodies the immune system produces in response to the dengue virus. Immunoglobulin M (IgM) antibodies are often present soon after a person gets sick, while Immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies develop later.
   3. Complete Blood Count (CBC): A CBC can reveal changes in blood cell counts, such as a decrease in platelets, which is common in dengue cases.
   4. NS1 Antigen Test: This test detects the presence of the dengue virus NS1 antigen in the blood. It is often used in the early stages of infection.

The combination of these tests helps healthcare professionals confirm a dengue diagnosis. It's essential to consult with a healthcare provider if dengue is suspected, as prompt diagnosis and appropriate medical care are crucial for managing the illness. Early detection allows for better monitoring and reduces the risk of severe complications associated with dengue.

The Georgia Department of Public Health tracks and monitors cases of mosquito diseases, including dengue, through passive surveillance systems, which rely on healthcare providers to submit laboratory results and medical records for review. 

Georgia Data

From 2018 to 2022, 14 dengue cases were reported in Georgia residents. It is important to note that all dengue cases were imported, meaning people picked up the disease outside of Georgia. At this time, we have no evidence of local transmission of dengue.

National Data

Data and Statistics on Dengue in the United States [external link]

Case Surveillance

What is Case Surveillance? (CSTE) [external link]

NOTE: Disease surveillance systems primarily count cases based on the patient's residential location rather than the specific exposure location.

If you believe you have dengue, please consult your healthcare provider. 

Additionally, you can use the following links to learn more.

CDC - Dengue [external link]

WHO - Dengue and severe dengue [external link]

For information on local surveillance, contact your local health district or the Georgia Department of Public Health, Epidemiology Section at 404-657-2588 and ask to speak to the Vectorborne Disease Team.

Mosquitoes in Georgia do not transmit dengue. Georgia residents who have dengue get it while traveling to a place where it is endemic (more common) or an ongoing outbreak. It is essential to note this while looking at state-specific data because these reports are based on where the person typically lives, not necessarily where they got the disease.

The reported cases in Georgia are reported in the table below by year.

Why is 2016 higher than other years?

This increase in dengue cases was directly related to the Zika outbreak and the increased testing for dengue and chikungunya that occurred while testing for Zika.

Why are the totals in 2020-2021 so low?

This is another point where the data are impacted by other diseases—mainly COVID-19. Because of the pandemic, which prompted quarantines, travel restrictions (and hesitations), and difficulty getting an appointment when so many doctor offices, clinics, and hospitals were dealing with COVID-19, other diseases saw a dramatic decline in cases.

Why is 2023 data not displayed?

Before submitting data, our health department uses rigorous quality assurance (QA) practices to ensure we do not incorrectly count cases. These practices are usually completed in the summer of the following year. Therefore, 2023 cases may not be displayed until the fall of 2024.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) collects data from states through ArboNET. Data are then displayed on their Data and Statistics on Dengue in the United States webpage.