Florida reports 65 locally acquired dengue cases in Tampa Bay area

The Florida Department of Health reported 65 locally acquired dengue fever cases in the Tampa Bay region, with 59 in Hillsborough County, five in Pinellas County and one in Pasco County. Statewide, the total of locally transmitted cases reached 73 through Aug. 29, up from 33 reported earlier in the week.

All confirmed cases in the three Bay Area counties were identified as dengue virus type 2 (DENV-2) by PCR testing. Mosquito surveillance also found 14 positive pools of Aedes aegypti in Hillsborough, including four in the latest reporting period.

County mosquito control agencies have intensified efforts, conducting aerial and ground pesticide applications, door-to-door inspections and larvicide treatments. Pasco County joined the aerial response, while Pinellas County added daytime fogging and breeding-site removal.

"We do expect to see more cases. There are actions we can take to reduce the propagation of these mosquitoes," Florida Surgeon General Dr. Joseph Ladapo said at a press briefing.

"We cannot let our guard down. We have to keep the pressure on mosquitos," said Dr. Peter Jiang, president of Hillsborough County Mosquito Management.

"Wear repellent, especially, that’s really our biggest line of defense. Cover up if you’re gonna be out for that prolonged period of time," added Dr. Carla Fry, health officer for the Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County.

Officials continue to advise residents to follow the "3 Ds"—dress in long sleeves and pants, use EPA-approved insect repellent, and eliminate standing water where mosquitoes can breed.