World Cup Fever: Scientists sound alert against dengue

The World Cup competition this year in Brazil may bring more than exciting soccer action to fans — they could also be greeted by dengue fever. An early warning system for the disease has been developed by scientists for the first time.

The competition will begin on June 12 and continue through July 13, and will be held in 12 cities around the nation.

Researchers found the risk in the northeastern venues of Natal, Recife and Fortaleza is significant enough to warrant a high-risk warning to people travelling to the games there.

Other cities were found to pose a low risk to players and fans, although uncertainty remains. Another factor that could affect transmission of dengue at the World Cup is weather. The virus becomes more common after months of heavy rain.

There are no known treatments or cures for the illness, which is more common in Brazil than anywhere else in the world.