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Dangerous mosquito-borne virus spreads in one state as officials warn of rising cases
Fox News • • health
Key Points:
- Florida is experiencing a rise in locally acquired dengue fever cases, with 33 reported in Tampa Bay and 41 statewide as of September 1, prompting increased mosquito surveillance, inspections, and spraying efforts.
- Hillsborough and Pinellas counties are under mosquito-borne illness alerts, with the Florida Mosquito Control Association reporting the majority of cases concentrated in Hillsborough County.
- Dengue is a mosquito-borne viral illness that can cause fever, severe aches, and in rare cases, life-threatening complications, and while most cases recover within weeks, severe dengue requires urgent medical attention.
- The CDC noted 2024 as a record year for dengue in the U.S., with Florida leading in case numbers, including 85 locally acquired infections across 10 counties, highlighting the potential for further local transmission.
- Residents are urged to eliminate standing water around their homes and follow preventive measures such as wearing protective clothing and using mosquito repellents to help control the spread of the virus.
