What do I need to know before I travel?
Public Health Scotland logo

Fit for Travel Logo

Information on how to stay safe and healthy abroad. About us.

Dengue Fever in United States (Texas)

21 Nov 2013

A small outbreak of dengue fever has been reported in Cameron County by the Texas Department of State Health Services. Twenty five cases have been reported and at least six of the cases are considered locally-acquired. Six individuals have required hospital treatment. Dengue fever has been laboratory confirmed.

Five cases of dengue fever have been reported in neighboring Hidalgo County, however, all had a travel history to dengue fever risk areas.

Cameron County is the southernmost county in Texas. It borders Willacy County, Hidalgo County and Matamoros Municipality, Tamaulipas, Mexico to the south.

Advice for Travellers

Avoidance of mosquito bites, particularly during daylight hours, by covering up with clothing, the use of bite avoidance measures such as repellent and bed nets is advised. Elimination of breeding sites around hotel rooms/houses is advised for longer term stays.