Florida sees rise in locally acquired dengue cases as mosquito control steps up

Florida mosquito-control agencies are expanding surveillance, inspections and spraying as the number of locally acquired dengue fever cases climbs. As of Sept. 1, the state recorded 41 cases, with 33 reported in the Tampa Bay region. The Florida Mosquito Control Association listed 30 confirmed cases in Hillsborough County, seven in Miami-Dade, three in Pinellas and one in Palm Beach. Both Hillsborough and Pinellas counties are under mosquito-borne illness alerts issued by the Florida Department of Health.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention describes dengue as a viral illness transmitted by mosquitoes that can cause fever, severe aches, nausea, rash and, in rare instances, life-threatening complications. While the disease is most common in tropical regions, locally acquired cases have occurred in several U.S. states, with Florida accounting for the highest number of cases in 2024.

"Dengue does not stop at county lines," Pinellas County Mosquito Control Director Alissa Berro told Fox 13. "When someone infected with dengue enters a new area, a local mosquito can bite that person and later spread the virus to others."

Mosquito-control crews are increasing aerial and ground treatments in areas where the virus has been detected and are inspecting private properties for breeding sites. The Florida Mosquito Control Association urges residents to eliminate standing water in containers such as buckets, planters and tires, and to follow the “three Ds”: dress in long sleeves and light colors, use insect repellent containing DEET or similar ingredients, and dump standing water.

Health officials note that many dengue infections are asymptomatic, and most symptomatic patients recover within one to two weeks. However, severe dengue can develop quickly, with symptoms such as intense abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, bleeding, breathing difficulties or extreme fatigue, requiring immediate medical attention.