Richmond, VA (JK) – Virginia has confirmed its first known case of locally acquired dengue virus infection.
The Virginia Department of Health says the patient, a Northern Virginia resident, had not traveled outside the state before becoming ill. Investigators believe a local mosquito became infected after biting a person who recently returned from international travel with dengue, then later transmitted the virus to the second patient.
Health officials say there is no evidence of continued local transmission, and no additional locally acquired cases have been identified. They emphasize that the risk of contracting dengue in Virginia remains low.
VDH, along with the Fairfax and Loudoun County health departments, is conducting mosquito surveillance and monitoring for any additional cases. Residents are encouraged to reduce mosquito breeding by emptying standing water from containers around homes and businesses and to use insect repellent and other measures to avoid mosquito bites.
Dengue is spread by infected Aedes mosquitoes and can cause fever, severe headache, eye pain, muscle and joint pain, nausea, vomiting and rash. While most people recover within a week, severe cases can lead to life-threatening complications and require immediate medical attention.
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