Kaohsiung has confirmed Taiwan’s first dengue cluster of 2025, marking the earliest local outbreak in nearly a decade. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) announced on Monday that a man in his 50s living in Gushan District tested positive for dengue virus type 2. This case triggered further investigations that identified three additional infections nearby.
The index patient first showed symptoms like headache, nausea, and loss of appetite last Saturday. He sought medical care the following day, and tests confirmed dengue fever. Following this diagnosis, health officials quickly screened those close to him.
The screenings revealed two family members and a neighbor were also infected. One family member, a man in his 20s, developed fever and headache on Friday. Another family member, a woman in her 50s, tested positive but showed no symptoms. Additionally, a female neighbor in her 50s was confirmed with dengue fever. All four live close together in Gushan District.
Since none of the patients had traveled abroad recently, the CDC classified these cases as locally transmitted. Local authorities immediately inspected mosquito breeding sites near the patients’ homes. They also launched vector-control efforts to stop the virus’s spread.
Currently, 101 individuals have undergone dengue testing in the area. The CDC reminded residents that Taiwan is in the midst of dengue season, especially with recent rainfall providing ideal mosquito breeding conditions. Consequently, officials strongly advise households to remove stagnant water and inspect their surroundings regularly.
Moreover, the CDC urges people engaging in outdoor activities to wear light-colored, long-sleeved clothing. They also recommend using government-approved mosquito repellents containing DEET, Picaridin, or IR-3535.
Anyone experiencing dengue symptoms such as fever, headache, eye pain, muscle or joint pain, or rash should seek medical care promptly. Patients should inform doctors about any recent travel history.
To sum up, the detection of Taiwan’s first dengue cluster of 2025 highlights the urgent need for public vigilance and mosquito control. Keeping homes clean and taking preventive measures remain crucial during this season to protect communities from dengue fever.
