Florida’s mosquito-control agencies are intensifying efforts as dengue fever cases are expected to increase across Tampa Bay and the state. As of early September, Florida recorded 33 cases in the Tampa Bay area and 41 statewide. Local cases mean individuals contracted dengue without traveling abroad.
The Florida Mosquito Control Association (FMCA) noted confirmed cases in various counties: 30 in Hillsborough, seven in Miami-Dade, three in Pinellas, and one in Palm Beach. Hillsborough and Pinellas counties remain under alerts for mosquito-borne illnesses by the Florida Department of Health.
Dengue fever, transmitted by mosquitoes, can cause fever, severe aches, nausea, and in rare instances, life-threatening issues. Common in tropical and subtropical regions, including Southeast Asia and Latin America, local cases have also occurred in Florida, California, and Texas.
Dengue does not stop at county lines. Mosquitoes transmitting the virus stay within small areas, but people move throughout the Tampa Bay region daily. Infected individuals can inadvertently spread the virus when local mosquitoes bite them and then transmit the virus further. — Alissa Berro, Pinellas County Mosquito Control Director
To combat the spread, Florida mosquito-control teams are increasing surveillance, inspections, and spraying. Efforts include aerial and ground treatments in affected areas and inspecting properties for breeding sites. FMCA advises residents to eliminate standing water in containers like buckets and tires, as the mosquitoes breeding in these environments are key vectors of dengue.
Residents are encouraged to adopt the ‘three Ds’:
- Dress: Wear long sleeves, light colors, and closed-toed shoes outdoors.
- Defend: Use repellents with DEET, picaridin, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus.
- Dump: Clear water from containers around the home and check yards regularly.
Although many with dengue do not exhibit symptoms, those who do typically recover within a week or two. Vigilance is key, as some cases can advance to severe dengue, a condition with life-threatening complications, heralded by severe pains, vomiting, unusual bleeding, and signs like extreme tiredness or irritability. Immediate medical care is crucial if warning signs appear.