Dangerous mosquito-borne virus emerges in popular US state as cases reach highest levels in decades

Florida health officials have confirmed 485 locally acquired cases of dengue this year, as the state grapples with its largest outbreak in decades.

Between Oct. 18 and 24, state surveillance recorded 60 new infections, with the Tampa Bay area accounting for about 95% of all locally acquired cases recorded statewide, according to the Florida Department of Health.

The increase led to emergency declarations in Hillsborough, Pasco and Pinellas counties in late September, allowing for faster purchasing and spraying and requests for reimbursement at the state and federal level. Hillsborough County has since extended its state of local emergency amid continued transmission.

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The locally acquired infections are separate from the more than 300 travel-associated dengue cases reported in Florida this year.

The Florida Mosquito Control Association said mosquito control teams are ramping up targeted ground spraying, aerial applications and spot property inspections.

Tampa Bay area mosquito control teams have increased surveillance and treatments as locally acquired dengue cases increase. (iStock)

What is dengue?

Dengue is a viral disease transmitted mainly by the bite of infected Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes. The virus can cause fever, severe muscle and joint pain, nausea, rash and, in severe cases, dangerous complications or death, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Unlike many mosquito species that bite primarily at dawn and dusk, dengue-carrying mosquitoes feed aggressively during the day and thrive in humid residential environments.

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“Aedes mosquitoes that can transmit dengue fever are active during the day and thrive in warm, humid environments like those found in Florida,” an entomologist spokesperson with the SC Johnson Center for Insect Science and Family Health previously told Fox News Digital.

In addition to local spread, Florida has seen more than 300 travel-associated infections this year, which continue to introduce the virus into house mosquito populations. (iStock)

“Staying aware of local mosquito activity and consistently protecting yourself from bites are important steps people can take to reduce their risks.”

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Public health officials point out that Aedes mosquitoes breed in containers and only need a tablespoon of standing water to lay their eggs. Officials urge residents to inspect yards weekly and drain or cover birdbaths, gutters, planters, discarded tires and outdoor containers.

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Health authorities recommend taking the following additional precautions.

• Apply EPA-registered repellents: Use insect repellents containing active ingredients such as DEET, picaridin, or lemon eucalyptus oil, following all label directions.
• Layer correctly: When wearing both sunscreen and insecticide, apply sunscreen first and then insect repellent.
• Cover exposed skin: Wear loose, light-colored long sleeves, pants, and closed-toe shoes when outdoors.
• Eliminate standing water: Regularly empty and scrub all exterior containers that contain water.

Public health officials urge residents to use insect repellents containing active ingredients such as DEET, picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus, following all label directions. (iStock)

Most people infected with dengue have mild or no symptoms, usually recovering within two weeks, according to the Mayo Clinic.

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When symptoms do appear, they usually appear four to ten days after an infectious bite. Severe dengue can progress rapidly within 24 to 48 hours after the initial fever subsides.

Warning signs include persistent vomiting, severe abdominal pain, difficulty breathing, bleeding from mucous membranes, and extreme lethargy.

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Anyone experiencing these signs should seek emergency medical attention immediately.