Florida records first locally transmitted dengue cases in Pinellas County in 15 years
Florida health officials confirmed ten locally acquired dengue fever cases this year, including eight in Hillsborough County and two in Pinellas County, the latter marking the first local transmission in the county in 15 years.
Florida health authorities reported ten locally acquired dengue fever cases in 2024, with eight infections identified in Hillsborough County and two in Pinellas County. The Pinellas cases represent the first locally transmitted dengue infections in the county since 2009. Dengue, a mosquito-borne illness spread by Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus, typically reaches the United States through travelers who contract the disease abroad.
"Pinellas doesn't have any modern history of having dengue in the county," said Alyssa Berro, Pinellas County mosquito control manager, adding that the recent cases likely stem from an infected traveler who was bitten by local mosquitoes, initiating transmission.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) noted that 1,471 dengue cases have been reported nationwide this year, most linked to international travel. Approximately one quarter of people bitten by an infected mosquito develop symptoms ranging from fever and rash to severe muscle and joint pain. The CDC advises residents in affected areas to wear protective clothing and use insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, lemon eucalyptus, or para-menthane-diol, with the latter two not recommended for children under three. Treatment focuses on supportive care such as acetaminophen, rest, and hydration.