Florida's dengue outbreak is largest in continental U.S. in decades
Summary
Florida is experiencing the largest outbreak of dengue fever in the continental United States in many decades, with more than 250 locally spread cases reported this year. Most cases are in Hillsborough County, where officials are spraying to control mosquitoes that carry the virus.Key Facts
- Over 250 cases of locally transmitted dengue have been reported in Florida this year, mostly in Hillsborough County (Tampa area).
- This outbreak may be the largest in any continental U.S. state since at least the 1940s.
- Dengue is a viral illness spread by mosquitoes, causing fever, severe aches, and sometimes serious complications or death.
- One dengue-related death has occurred in Florida this year, an elderly woman in Tampa.
- The virus spreads through warm-weather mosquitoes that are becoming more common in new areas due to climate change.
- Florida often sees dengue cases from travelers returning from places like Puerto Rico, where dengue is more common.
- This year, local dengue cases in Florida have slightly outnumbered those linked to travel.
- Public health officials declared local emergencies and increased mosquito control efforts to reduce the spread.
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