Global warming and elevated journey drive surge in Hong Kong dengue infections

Global warming and globalisation have considerably elevated the variety of imported dengue fever circumstances in Hong Kong, well being specialists have mentioned, with annual infections rising from dozens to greater than 100 prior to now 20 years.

This fast improve has occurred alongside a rising danger of mosquito-borne ailments within the metropolis. So far this yr, Hong Kong has recorded 22 imported chikungunya fever circumstances, a brand new excessive because the illness grew to become notifiable in 2009, following an outbreak in neighbouring Guangdong province.

Among the seven forms of mosquito-borne ailments that have to be reported to well being authorities, dengue fever has seen probably the most vital improve from 2005 to 2025, based on statistics from the Centre for Health Protection reviewed by the Post.

Dengue usually causes signs equivalent to fever, headache and ache behind the eyes. While most individuals get better inside every week, the illness can turn into circulatory failure and even dying in some circumstances.

The variety of viral infections rose from about 30 to 80 yearly between 2005 and 2012, then elevated to about 100 in 2013 and practically 200 in 2019.

The yearly figures dropped to between two and 62 circumstances from 2020 to 2023, doubtless on account of extreme journey disruptions in the course of the Covid-19 pandemic, however surged to 161 in 2024 as cross-border motion resumed.