Dengue infection among returning relief workers
April 30, 2010
The CDC has received reports of dengue fever among relief workers returning from Haiti, where the disease is endemic. Dengue fever (DF) is transmitted to humans by the bite of an infected mosquito, and it is characterized by high fever plus two or more of the following: headache, retro-orbital pain, joint pain, muscle or bone pain, rash, mild hemorrhagic manifestations, and leukopenia. The incubation period for DF ranges from three to 14 days, but is typically about one week; therefore, illness may occur while the workers are stationed in Haiti or after they return to the US.
A small proportion of patients develop dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF), which is characterized by presence of resolving fever or a recent history of fever lasting two to seven days, any hemorrhagic manifestation, thrombocytopenia, and abnormal vascular permeability evidenced by hemoconcentration, hypoalbuminemia, or abdominal or pleural effusions.
Health care providers in the United States should consider dengue in the differential diagnosis of febrile illness in any person who has recently been in Haiti or other countries where dengue is being transmitted. Health care providers should consult the Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) at 800-362-2736 when they suspect DF or DHF, and IDPH will facilitate proper testing.
For additional information on dengue visit: www.cdc.gov/Dengue/