Dengue Outbreak and Response - Puerto Rico, 2024

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Epidemiology
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Dengue virus (DENV) poses a significant public health threat in Puerto Rico, with multiple serotypes circulating.
• The region declared a public health emergency in March 2024 due to a dengue outbreak surpassing epidemic thresholds.

Purpose of the Study:

• To monitor the 2024 dengue outbreak in Puerto Rico.
• To implement vector-control measures and public health campaigns.
• To analyze dengue case numbers, serotypes, and outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Surveillance of dengue cases reported to the Puerto Rico Department of Health.
• Analysis of case demographics, geographic distribution, and DENV serotypes.
• Monitoring of hospitalizations and severe dengue cases.

Main Results:

• Over 6,291 confirmed dengue cases were reported in 2024, with San Juan, Carolina, and Rincón most affected.
• DENV serotype 3 was predominant (59.2%).
• Hospitalization rates were high (52.3%), particularly among adolescents (10-19 years), who also had the highest severe dengue rates (28.4%).

Conclusions:

• Dengue transmission remains elevated, necessitating ongoing public health interventions.
• Tailored strategies including vaccination, vector control, and community outreach are essential.
• Public awareness and personal protective measures are vital for reducing mosquito bite risk.