HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, Fla. – Health officials in Hillsborough County have confirmed an eighth human case of locally acquired dengue fever, keeping the region under an ongoing mosquito-borne illness alert.
The Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County (DOH-Hillsborough) announced the diagnosis and stated that it is coordinating with Hillsborough County Mosquito Management to deploy surveillance and prevention resources to curb local mosquito populations.
Dengue fever is a viral infection transmitted through the bite of an infected Aedes aegypti mosquito. It is not contagious between humans.
Symptoms typically develop within 15 days of an infected bite and can include a sudden fever, severe muscle and joint aches, and a rash. Unlike typical flu viruses, dengue generally does not cause respiratory symptoms.
To reduce the risk of transmission, health officials advise residents to take preventative steps against mosquito bites and breeding:
- Drain standing water: Empty water from items such as tires, buckets, flowerpots, pool covers, and coolers. According to DOH-Hillsborough, a single water-filled tire can serve as a breeding ground for hundreds of mosquitoes.
- Cover exposed skin: Wear loose-fitting, long-sleeved shirts and long pants when outdoors.
- Use insect repellent: Apply EPA-registered repellents to skin and clothing as directed. EPA-registered repellents are tested and approved as safe for general use, including for pregnant and breastfeeding women.
- Secure homes: Repair damaged window, door, porch, and patio screens to prevent mosquitoes from entering indoor spaces.
DOH-Hillsborough continues statewide monitoring for various mosquito-borne pathogens, including West Nile virus, Eastern equine encephalitis, St. Louis encephalitis, malaria, chikungunya, and dengue.
Residents are also encouraged to report dead bird sightings through the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission website to assist with broader disease surveillance across the state.
READ: Pinellas County Ramps Up Mosquito Control After Dengue Fever Cases Confirmed
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