Dengue Fever Surges in Tampa Bay; Emergencies Declared

Hillsborough, Pasco, and Pinellas counties have declared local states of emergency following a significant surge in locally acquired dengue fever cases throughout the Tampa Bay area. The declarations mobilize emergency resources and facilitate inter-county cooperation for mosquito control. Residents elsewhere in the region, including Belle Isle, are advised to remain vigilant.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Florida Department of Health report nearly 392 dengue fever cases statewide. The Tampa Bay region, particularly Hillsborough County, is the epicenter of local transmission, accounting for the vast majority of the outbreak. Hillsborough County has recorded 160 to 170 cases, representing approximately 88% of Florida's locally acquired dengue cases.

Local government agencies are implementing widespread mosquito control measures. Thousands of mosquitofish have been released into local lakes and non-flowing water bodies, including Prospect Lake, Blen Oaks, Moccasin Lake, and Salls Lake. These fish consume up to 100 mosquito larvae daily. Targeted larviciding is also underway to eliminate Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes, the primary vectors for dengue, through precision ground and aerial spraying.

Hillsborough County has requested mutual aid from neighboring Lee County and other vector control districts for spraying equipment and expert personnel. Pinellas County has reported 7 cases and issued its own local emergency order, with vector treatments ongoing. Pasco County has recorded 2 cases, prompting its state of emergency declaration. Polk County has 1 case and is under active monitoring.

Residents should practice the “Drain and Cover” method to eliminate standing water in containers like birdbaths, plant saucers, and discarded tires. Clearing home gutters and ensuring window and door screens are intact also helps. Using EPA-registered insect repellents offers personal protection.

Symptoms of dengue fever typically appear 4 to 10 days after an infected mosquito bite. They include high fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, joint and muscle pain, and mild bleeding or rash. Individuals experiencing severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, or difficulty breathing should seek immediate emergency medical care.