Florida records 485 locally acquired dengue cases, majority in Tampa Bay area
The Florida Department of Health confirmed 485 locally transmitted dengue fever infections this year, with about 95% occurring in the Tampa Bay region, prompting emergency measures in three counties.
Florida health officials have confirmed 485 locally acquired cases of dengue fever for the year, marking the state's most significant outbreak in decades. State surveillance reported 60 new infections between Oct. 18 and Oct. 24, and the Tampa Bay area accounted for roughly 95% of all locally transmitted cases, according to the Florida Department of Health.
The rise in cases led to emergency declarations in Hillsborough, Pasco and Pinellas counties in late September, allowing faster procurement of mosquito control measures and eligibility for state and federal reimbursement. Hillsborough County has extended its local emergency status as transmission continues.
The locally acquired infections are separate from more than 300 travel-related dengue cases reported in Florida this year. The Florida Mosquito Control Association said mosquito abatement teams are increasing targeted ground spraying, aerial applications and property inspections.
"The Aedes mosquitoes that can transmit dengue are active during the day and thrive in warm, humid environments like those found in Florida," an entomologist spokesperson at the SC Johnson Center for Insect Science and Family Health told Fox News Digital.
Public health officials note that Aedes mosquitoes are "container breeders," needing only a small amount of standing water to lay eggs. Residents are urged to inspect yards weekly and eliminate or cover birdbaths, gutters, planters, discarded tires and other outdoor containers.
Health authorities recommend using EPA-registered repellents containing DEET, picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus, applying sunscreen before repellent, wearing loose-fitting light-colored clothing and shoes, and regularly emptying and scrubbing outdoor water containers.
Most infected individuals experience mild or no symptoms and recover within two weeks, according to the Mayo Clinic. When symptoms appear, they typically develop four to 10 days after a bite. Severe dengue can progress quickly, with warning signs that include persistent vomiting, severe abdominal pain, difficulty breathing, mucosal bleeding and extreme lethargy.