Florida reports 485 dengue fever cases in largest outbreak for decades

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 3 Nov, 01:14 · Archive

Florida has confirmed 485 locally acquired dengue fever cases this year, the largest outbreak in decades, with Tampa Bay accounting for 95% of infections.

Florida health officials have confirmed 485 locally acquired cases of dengue fever in 2024, the state's largest outbreak in decades. Between 18 and 24 October, state surveillance logged 60 new infections. The Tampa Bay area accounts for roughly 95% of all locally acquired cases statewide, according to the Florida Department of Health. These locally acquired infections are separate from more than 300 travel-associated dengue cases also reported in Florida this year.

The surge prompted emergency declarations in Hillsborough, Pasco and Pinellas counties in late September, allowing for faster purchasing and spraying and requests for state and federal reimbursement. Hillsborough County has since extended its state of local emergency amid ongoing transmission. The Florida Mosquito Control Association said mosquito abatement teams are stepping up targeted ground spraying, aerial applications and localized property inspections.

Dengue is a viral illness transmitted through 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 mostly at dawn and dusk, the mosquitoes carrying dengue feed aggressively during daytime hours and thrive in humid residential environments. The Aedes mosquitoes are 'container breeders', requiring as little as a tablespoon of standing water to lay eggs.

How it is being reported

• Florida battles largest dengue fever outbreak in decades with hundreds infectedThe locally acquired infections are separate from more than 300 travel-associated dengue cases reported in Florida this year.New York Post · 3 Nov, 01:05
• Dangerous mosquito-borne virus surges in popular US state as cases reach highest levels in decadesFlorida's dengue fever outbreak has reached 485 locally acquired cases, with Tampa Bay accounting for 95% of infections and emergency declarations issued.Fox News · 2 Nov, 19:17

In this story: Florida · Tampa Bay · Hillsborough County · Pasco County · Pinellas County · Centers for Disease Control and Prevention · Florida Department of Health · Florida Mosquito Control Association

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