Health Officials Confirm First Dengue Fever Case of 2025
The Department of Public Health and Social Services (DPHSS) has confirmed the first case of dengue fever for 2025 in Guam. Reported on September 18, 2025, this case is believed to be imported, with no additional cases identified since then.
Response and Preventive Measures
Following the confirmation, the Division of Environmental Health (DEH) promptly conducted an environmental assessment around the confirmed case’s residence. This assessment took place on September 19, and no further confirmed cases of dengue fever were reported. The DPHSS emphasized that while dengue fever is not endemic to Guam, the island has the mosquito vectors capable of transmitting the virus.
Dengue virus spreads through the bite of infected mosquitoes, and individuals living or traveling to areas where the virus is present are at risk. Symptoms typically manifest as a fever lasting from two to seven days, during which time an infected person may spread the virus to mosquitoes.
As part of the response, DEH carried out pesticide spraying at one household and two apartment complexes on September 20 and September 21 after obtaining consent from residents. Additionally, DEH visited 36 households within a 100-meter radius of the confirmed case to distribute pamphlets and brochures focused on dengue prevention and mosquito control.
Guidelines for Prevention
To mitigate the risk of dengue fever, the DPHSS recommends several precautions. Avoiding mosquito bites is crucial, particularly during the day when the Aedes mosquitoes, which transmit the virus, are most active. Residents should apply insect repellant and wear light-colored, long-sleeved clothing.
Furthermore, individuals can help reduce mosquito breeding sites by eliminating standing water in their surroundings. Items such as old tires, buckets, and other containers that can collect rainwater should be emptied or discarded. Infected individuals are advised to stay indoors during their fever and seek medical attention if they experience symptoms such as:
– Fever
– Aches and pains
– Rash
– Mild bleeding around the nose or gums
In cases of severe dengue fever, known as dengue hemorrhagic fever, immediate medical attention is essential if symptoms include:
– Severe abdominal pain
– Persistent vomiting
– Significant bleeding
– Extreme lethargy or restlessness
Most people infected with dengue do not exhibit symptoms, but severe cases can be fatal. The World Health Organization states that currently, no specific treatment exists for dengue fever, and management focuses on alleviating pain and discomfort.
The DPHSS continues to monitor the situation closely and urges the community to remain vigilant in dengue prevention efforts.
