Locally Acquired Dengue Case Reported in Virginia

The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) announced on Aug. 4 that it is investigating the first documented case of locally acquired dengue virus infection in the state. The Northern Virginia resident had no known travel outside the state prior to illness onset but had been in close proximity to another resident who recently acquired dengue internationally.

According to VDH, the virus was likely transmitted when a local Aedes mosquito bit the internationally acquired case while the individual was infectious, subsequently infecting the second person. VDH reported no evidence of continued transmission and said the risk of acquiring dengue in Virginia remains low. VDH is working with local partners to monitor any additional dengue cases and conduct surveillance of mosquitoes that can carry dengue viruses.

Information for Blood Collectors

AABB’s Transfusion Transmitted Diseases Committee will continue to monitor dengue virus activity and its potential impact on blood safety. Additional information about dengue virus is available in AABB’s emerging infectious diseases fact sheets.