Multiple factors have come into play to produce a large scale dengue epidemic in the Caribbean region. According to an MSNBC article, the number of dengue fever cases are likely to top one million in the hemisphere by the end of 2007. There has been a recent escalation in the number of cases because the rainy season is now in full force. An unprecedented increase in the number of people living in crowded, urban areas (where there is a lack of public services) coupled with "radical, destabalizing" climate changes due to global warming have contributed significantly to this epidemiological disaster. Increased travel and tourism have not helped to slow the epidemic. For the time being, before a vaccine is developed, it is imperative that countries raise awareness on the issue through education and by urging its citizens to minimize stagnant pools of water.
-Tad Henry
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