Stay smart on summer trips: dengue fever is rising

This summer, travelers should pack more than sunscreen. Mosquitoes carrying dengue fever are spreading faster than usual, prompting health alerts across the country. The illness, nicknamed “breakbone fever” for the severe joint pain it causes, starts with ordinary flu-like symptoms—high temperature, rash, and body aches—that can linger for days. Experts note that warmer weather and global travel help mosquitoes and viruses move farther and faster. Kids and older adults face higher risks if they catch dengue, because their bodies struggle to fight it quickly. While most people recover without problems, a small number can get seriously ill. This makes smart planning before trips even more important.Travelers can lower their risk by covering up at dawn and dusk, when mosquitoes are most active. Using bug spray with DEET or picaridin keeps bugs away better than hoping for the best. Wearing loose, light-colored clothing also helps prevent bites. Simple steps like these can make a big difference in staying healthy abroad. When it comes to treatment, there is no special cure for dengue. Doctors focus on easing fever and pain with medicine available at any pharmacy. Staying hydrated and resting are key to a faster recovery. Hospital care is needed only if symptoms worsen, which is rare but worth watching.