Photo: iStock / Fox News (illustrative)
Florida has recorded 485 locally acquired dengue cases this year, Fox News reported on November 2, citing the Florida Department of Health. The report said state surveillance logged 60 new infections during October 18-24.
The Tampa Bay area accounted for roughly 95% of locally acquired cases recorded statewide, according to the department’s figures cited by Fox. The locally acquired count is separate from more than 300 travel-associated dengue cases reported in Florida this year, Fox reported.
The figures describe the year-to-date totals and the October 18-24 surveillance window cited in the November 2 report, rather than a new daily case count.
Emergency declarations were issued in Hillsborough, Pasco and Pinellas counties in late September, and Hillsborough has since extended its local emergency amid continuing transmission, Fox reported. The Florida Mosquito Control Association said crews were increasing targeted ground spraying, aerial applications and property inspections, according to Fox.
Dengue is spread primarily through bites from infected mosquitoes. Fox, citing the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, reported that it can cause fever, muscle and joint pain, nausea and rash, with severe complications in some cases. Public health officials cited in the report urged residents to use EPA-registered insect repellent as directed and remove standing water from outdoor containers.
JBizNews Desk
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