Dengue Fever Outbreak Declares State of Emergency in Pasco and Hillsborough Counties Amid 190 Cases Statewide

Local Emergency Declared Amid Rising Dengue Cases

Pasco and Hillsborough counties have declared a local state of emergency due to a significant rise in dengue fever cases. This declaration, made in response to a growing public health concern, allows both counties to access increased resources and coordinate efforts more effectively to combat the spread of the mosquito-borne illness.

Statewide, health officials have reported 190 dengue fever cases this year. The emergency status underscores the seriousness of the situation, enabling a more robust response from local and state agencies. Residents in Hillsborough County should understand the implications of this declaration for public health.

Understanding Dengue: Symptoms and Transmission

Dengue fever transmits primarily through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes, particularly Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus. These mosquitoes thrive in urban environments and often bite during the day. Common symptoms of dengue fever include high fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, joint and muscle pain, rash, and mild bleeding manifestations like nosebleeds or bleeding gums. Severe cases can lead to dengue hemorrhagic fever, a more serious form of the disease.

Public Health Response and Prevention Measures

The local state of emergency facilitates enhanced mosquito control operations, including increased surveillance, larvicide treatments, and adulticide spraying in affected areas. Public health initiatives will focus on educating residents about prevention. This includes advising on eliminating standing water around homes, which serves as mosquito breeding grounds, and promoting the use of insect repellent.

What Residents Need to Know

Residents must take proactive steps to protect themselves and their families. Use EPA-registered insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR3535. Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants when outdoors, especially during dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active. Drain standing water from flower pots, buckets, birdbaths, and other containers weekly. Ensure window and door screens are in good repair to prevent mosquitoes from entering homes. The health departments in both counties will continue to provide updates and guidance as the situation evolves.