Dengue is the most common mosquito-borne viral disease worldwide, with an estimated 100-400 million infections per year. It is transmitted by Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes, both aggressive day-biters most active in early morning and late afternoon.
Risk is highest during and just after rainy seasons when mosquito populations surge. Urban and peri-urban areas carry the most risk — unlike malaria, dengue thrives in cities. Southeast Asia, Latin America, the Caribbean, and Sub-Saharan Africa see the highest transmission.
A second dengue infection with a different serotype is significantly more dangerous than the first, potentially causing dengue hemorrhagic fever. There is no widely available vaccine for travelers — personal bite precautions remain the primary defense.
Aedes aegypti (primary) and Aedes albopictus — both day-biting species active in urban environments.
Travelers to endemic areas, young children, pregnant women, and people with prior dengue infection. A second infection with a different serotype carries a significantly higher risk of severe disease.
Dengue Fever is recorded in 84 countries in our database. Click any country for the full Mozzwise briefing covering local seasonality, regional risk, and prevention.
Disease information is sourced from WHO, CDC, ECDC, and OpenDengue. Not medical advice. Personal decisions on diagnosis, treatment, vaccinations, or medication belong with a qualified healthcare professional.