The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has released a new epidemiological update on dengue across the Americas, highlighting a significant decline in cases and deaths in 2025 while warning countries not to relax prevention and surveillance efforts.

According to the report, the region recorded 4,459,521 suspected dengue cases in 2025, of which 1,682,588 were laboratory confirmed. Among these, 8,966 cases were classified as severe dengue, and 2,207 deaths were reported, resulting in a case fatality rate of 0.05%. Compared with 2024 — a record-breaking year that saw more than 13 million cases — this represents a 66% drop in infections and a 74% reduction in deaths.

Despite the overall decline, the epidemiological situation varied across subregions. The Southern Cone reported the highest number of cases in 2025, although this still marked a 65% decrease from the previous year. In contrast, the Caribbean experienced a 7% rise in cases and reported figures more than double the average recorded between 2019 and 2023. Meanwhile, the Andean region as well as Central America and Mexico both registered declines compared to 2024.

Health experts also noted the simultaneous circulation of all four dengue virus serotypes in 2025, a factor that continues to increase the risk of outbreaks and severe forms of the disease.

Preliminary data for 2026 suggests a continued downward trend. By the end of January (epidemiological week 4), authorities reported 122,090 dengue cases, including 22,409 confirmed infections, 242 severe cases, and six deaths. This reflects an 83% decrease in cases and a 98% reduction in deaths compared with the same period in 2025.

However, PAHO has cautioned that the declining numbers should not lead to complacency. The organization is urging countries to reinforce integrated surveillance systems that combine epidemiological, clinical, laboratory, and entomological monitoring. It also recommends strengthening vector control measures, particularly in high-risk areas such as healthcare facilities.

The update further stresses the importance of early clinical diagnosis and careful monitoring of warning signs, including severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, mucosal bleeding, and lethargy, to ensure timely treatment and prevent hospitals from becoming overwhelmed.

In addition, countries are advised to adapt health services to ensure timely and quality patient care, prioritize virological testing for accurate case confirmation, and maintain clear laboratory protocols to enable early detection of potential outbreaks.