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Dengue fever outbreak prompts 3 counties to declare states of emergency
Fox News • • general
Key Points:
- Three Florida counties—Pasco, Hillsborough, and Pinellas—have declared states of emergency due to the spread of locally acquired dengue fever, allowing expedited mosquito-control and emergency response efforts.
- As of September 19, 190 locally acquired dengue cases have been confirmed across six Florida counties, with Hillsborough County reporting the majority at 170 cases.
- Dengue is transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, which are active during the day and thrive in warm, humid environments like Florida; residents are urged to take precautions such as using insect repellent and eliminating standing water to reduce breeding sites.
- The Florida Mosquito Control Association is increasing aerial and ground treatments and inspecting private properties to control the mosquito population and prevent further spread.
- While many dengue infections are mild or asymptomatic, severe dengue can be life-threatening, with symptoms including severe abdominal pain, bleeding, and difficulty breathing, requiring immediate medical attention.
