Dangerous mosquito-borne virus spreads in Florida as officials warn of rising cases

Key Points:

• Florida is experiencing a rise in locally acquired dengue fever cases, with 33 cases in Tampa Bay and 41 statewide as of September 1, prompting increased mosquito surveillance, inspections, and spraying efforts.
• The Florida Mosquito Control Association reported the majority of cases in Hillsborough County (30), with additional cases in Miami-Dade, Pinellas, and Palm Beach counties, leading to mosquito-borne illness alerts in Hillsborough and Pinellas counties.
• Dengue fever, transmitted by container-breeding mosquitoes, can cause fever, severe aches, and in rare cases, life-threatening complications, with Florida recording the highest number of US dengue cases in 2024, including 85 locally acquired cases.
• Mosquito control agencies are intensifying aerial and ground treatments and urging residents to eliminate standing water and follow protective measures such as dressing in long sleeves, using repellents, and regularly dumping water to reduce mosquito breeding.
• While many dengue infections are asymptomatic or mild, severe dengue can develop rapidly after initial symptoms, requiring immediate medical attention for warning signs like severe pain, bleeding, or difficulty breathing.