CDC data show dengue cases rise in 15 U.S. states, led by Florida outbreak

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said the number of reported dengue fever cases in the United States increased by 130 between its latest reporting periods, with rises documented in at least 15 states. Florida recorded the biggest surge, climbing from 392 to 485 cases, while California saw its count grow from 31 to 45.

Other states with higher totals included New York (27 to 31), Texas (14 to 17), New Jersey (16 to 19), Illinois (10 to 13) and Washington (16 to 18). Single-digit increases were also noted in Maryland, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Kentucky, Indiana, Nebraska, Colorado and West Virginia.

Health officials described the Florida situation as the most extensive dengue outbreak in the continental United States in recent decades. The majority of Florida cases have been locally acquired, concentrated around the Tampa Bay area, prompting emergency declarations in several counties.

Dengue is a mosquito-borne viral disease that can cause fever, headache, joint pain and, in severe instances, shock or organ failure. Experts attribute the broader rise to international travel returning infected individuals and the presence of Aedes mosquitoes capable of transmitting the virus.

"Residents should reduce mosquito exposure by using EPA-registered insect repellents, wearing long sleeves and eliminating standing water," a CDC spokesperson advised.

The agency emphasized that most U.S. infections remain linked to travel, but the Florida outbreak illustrates how quickly local transmission can develop when the virus encounters suitable mosquito vectors.