The Pasadena Public Health Department is reporting the first local case of dengue not related to travel in Los Angeles County.
Dengue is a viral infection spread to people through the bite of an infected mosquito. Most people who get dengue won’t have symptoms. But for those who do, the most common symptoms are high fever, headache, body aches, nausea and rash. Most recover in a week or two.
Still, there are significant risks. A pregnant woman already infected with dengue can pass the virus to her fetus during pregnancy or around the time of birth. People who develop severe dengue may need hospital care. In severe cases, dengue can be fatal, according to the World Health Organization.
The infected person is a Pasadena resident. There were no immediate details from Pasadena Public Health on the person’s identity or condition. A news conference has been scheduled for 3 p.m.
How is it spread?
Dengue viruses are spread to people through the bite of an infected Aedes species mosquito. These mosquitoes also spread Zika, chikungunya and other viruses.
According to the CDC, most outbreaks in the continental U.S. have been relatively small and limited. Local spread has been reported in Arizona, Florida, Hawaii and Texas.
In June, European health officials announced an uptick in locally acquired cases of dengue, which is also surging in Central and South America, as well as in many parts of Africa, Asia and the Pacific Islands.
The best way to avoid dengue: do everything you can to prevent mosquito bites. Use insect repellent, especially during dawn and dusk.
This is a developing story and will be updated.
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