Travelers planning a summer escape to Fiji should brace themselves for more than just beach vibes; they might want to stock up on some robust insect repellent. Instead of idyllic sunbathing, tourists may find themselves facing a serious health warning.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has raised alarms about a dramatic surge in dengue fever cases sweeping across the Western Pacific. This alarming situation has prompted the Fijian government to spring into action.

Dengue fever, a virus notoriously spread by mosquitoes, is now a global concern, with the World Health Organization (WHO) estimating that around half of the world’s population is at risk. The annual infections may reach a staggering 100 to 400 million, with cases increasingly reported in countries like Mexico, Canada, and throughout the Caribbean and Latin America.

Symptoms of dengue fever are unpredictable, typically starting with severe headaches, high fever, muscle and joint pain, nausea, vomiting, and rashes. In certain instances, victims may experience pain behind their eyes—a vicious warning that shouldn’t be ignored.

As of late March, Fiji’s Central Division reported over 1,000 active dengue cases, a significant increase compared to last year’s figures for the same period. The concerning trend has led the WHO to declare 2024 as potentially the worst year ever for dengue.

In the U.S., the CDC has categorized dengue fever as a level 1 health alert. They are advising all travelers to take necessary precautions, especially since spring and summer align with the peak season for this dangerous virus.

Tourists heading to Fiji—and other dengue-affected regions—are strongly urged to shield themselves by applying EPA-registered insect repellents, donning long sleeves and pants, and sleeping in air-conditioned accommodations or those with screened windows.

But Fiji isn’t the only destination facing this viral threat. The CDC has identified other hotspots, including Brazil, Colombia, and the Philippines, all reporting increased dengue cases among travelers returning to the U.S.

With climate change shaking up weather patterns—leading to heavier rains and greater flooding—experts warn that the conditions are perfect for mosquito populations to thrive, which in turn could exacerbate the spread of dengue and other vector-borne illnesses. The urgency is clear: if we continue to pump greenhouse gases into our atmosphere through pollution and waste, we risk creating a breeding ground for these dangerous diseases.