Florida dengue fever outbreak reaches 524 cases
Florida has reported a total of 524 locally acquired dengue fever cases as of October 31, marking the largest outbreak in decades.
Florida is experiencing a significant outbreak of dengue fever, with the latest report from the Florida Department of Health indicating 524 locally acquired cases as of October 31. This figure represents a sharp increase from the previous record of 199 cases in 2023.
In the past week alone, 39 new cases were confirmed, primarily concentrated in Hillsborough County, which has reported 407 cases. The outbreak has prompted local officials to declare a state of emergency in Hillsborough County, set to expire on November 12 unless extended, as they work to control the mosquito population.
One death attributed to dengue fever has been confirmed in Hillsborough County, involving an 80-year-old resident. The outbreak has surpassed the previous largest outbreak in the U.S., which occurred in Hawaii's Big Island between September 2015 and March 2016, where 264 local cases were reported.
In response to the rising cases, President Trump signed an executive order in September aimed at reducing mosquito populations in Washington, D.C., with plans to apply similar strategies nationwide. The Florida Department of Health is advising residents to take precautions against mosquito bites, including using repellents and eliminating standing water around their homes.
Dengue fever, also known as breakbone fever, can cause severe pain and debilitating symptoms, though it is rarely fatal. Symptoms typically appear three to 14 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito and can include fever, severe headache, and muscle and joint pain. While there is no specific treatment for dengue, supportive care can help alleviate symptoms.