Being dubbed as the “World’s Deadliest Creature” doesn’t come easy, and mosquitoes have earned it through their diverse range of attacks. While they are notoriously known for spreading malaria, there’s another virus that they carry which has led to a surge in the number of cases recently.
The dengue virus, transmitted by mosquitos, has been spreading rapidly in regions across the Americas. In 2024, the CDC reported nearly 10 million cases, which is a significant increase from the 4.6 million cases recorded last year. It is important to note that this outbreak is not limited to any specific country and is affecting all nations in the Americas. Even the 48 continental states of the United States are witnessing a surge in the number of cases.
The number of reported dengue cases in the first six months of this year has exceeded the usual amount, with a total of 745 cases. This is in line with expectations, but the figure is higher than what is typically seen during this period.
It’s difficult to find data on Michigan’s numbers in 2024, but it’s worth mentioning that the state had around 145 cases in total since 2010, which places it 15th in the continental United States, excluding territories such as Puerto Rico, American Samoa, US Virgin Islands, or Hawai’i.
Michigan’s climate doesn’t classify it as a mosquito hot spot, but residents are still at a higher risk of contracting the dengue virus from mosquitos compared to other areas. Southeast Michigan and Grand Rapids, which are heavily populated, have witnessed the most cases of the virus over the last decade.
What if I get the Dengue Virus?
The impact of the dengue virus varies from person to person. As per the CDC, approximately 25% of individuals who are infected with the virus fall ill, and the severity of symptoms can range from mild to severe. In some cases, severe symptoms can progress rapidly and become life-threatening within a few hours.
It’s crucial to keep a close eye on any potential symptoms after a mosquito bite. This includes being vigilant for signs of the dengue virus, which can manifest in several ways, such as:
The CDC has provided the image above, which shows the dengue virus’s symptoms.
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- Aches and pains (eye pain, typically behind the eyes, muscle, joint, or bone pain)
- Nausea, vomiting
- Rash
If you have mild symptoms, they should clear up in approximately a week. However, if you experience any of the following, it is essential to seek immediate emergency assistance:
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- Belly pain or tenderness
- Vomiting (at least 3 times in 24 hours)
- Bleeding from the nose or gums
- Vomiting blood, or blood in the stool
- Feeling extremely tired or restless
Around 5% of dengue-infected individuals experience warning signs that manifest 24–48 hours after the initial fever has subsided.
According to the CDC, the tiger mosquito, also known as the genus of mosquitoes, is responsible for the majority of dengue cases in the Americas.
The Aedes Mosquito, also known as the Tiger Mosquito, is a common type of mosquito that is responsible for spreading diseases such as dengue, Zika, and chikungunya. It is easily recognizable by its black and white striped legs and body. The Aedes Mosquito is particularly active during the day and can be found in both urban and rural areas. It is important to take precautions, such as using mosquito repellent and removing stagnant water from your surroundings, to prevent the spread of these diseases.
You can spot them easily with their distinct black and white markings on their back and legs. These mosquitos have a unique behavior of biting only during the day, particularly in the early hours of the morning or just before the sun sets in the evening.
