Florida is experiencing an increase in dengue fever cases, with 41 locally acquired infections reported statewide as of September 1. This rise has prompted mosquito-control agencies across the state, particularly in the Tampa Bay area, to intensify surveillance, inspections, and spraying efforts. The Florida Department of Health has issued mosquito-borne illness alerts for Hillsborough and Pinellas counties, which have recorded a significant number of confirmed cases.

Hillsborough County has reported 30 confirmed dengue cases, followed by Miami-Dade County with seven, Pinellas County with three, and Palm Beach County with one. Locally acquired cases indicate that individuals contracted the illness within Florida, rather than through travel abroad.

Dengue fever is a viral illness transmitted by mosquitoes, characterized by symptoms such as fever, severe aches, nausea, and rash. While most infected individuals recover within one to two weeks, some can develop severe dengue, a potentially life-threatening condition. Warning signs for severe dengue, which can appear shortly after the fever subsides, include severe stomach pain, persistent vomiting, unusual bleeding or bruising, difficulty breathing, and extreme fatigue.

This year's increase in Florida aligns with a broader trend. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported in May that 2024 was already a record year for dengue in the U.S., with 3,798 cases reported nationwide. Of these, about 3% were locally acquired, while the majority were travel-associated. Florida accounted for more than a quarter of these cases, with 1,044 reported infections, including 85 locally acquired cases across 10 counties.

Mosquito-control crews are conducting aerial and ground treatments in areas with identified dengue virus activity and inspecting private properties for potential breeding sites. The primary mosquito species that transmits dengue is known to breed in small collections of standing water. Residents are advised to eliminate such sources around their homes by emptying or covering containers like buckets, planters, plant saucers, and discarded toys.

The Florida Mosquito Control Association (FMCA) recommends residents follow the "three Ds" to protect themselves:

  • Dress in long sleeves, light colors, and closed-toed shoes when outdoors.
  • Defend by using EPA-approved insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus.
  • Dump standing water from containers around homes and regularly check yards for potential breeding sites.

Officials emphasize that mosquitoes carrying the virus can transmit it to others, especially as people travel within and between counties. The coordinated efforts aim to curb further local transmission of the virus.