Florida is at the forefront of a growing dengue fever outbreak, with the state reporting over 300 cases out of the roughly 2,000 confirmed nationwide, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The surge follows a wet season that has created ideal breeding conditions for the Aedes mosquitoes that transmit the disease.

Why the spike?

Allen Lindsey, owner of Mosquito Authority, explains that September is traditionally the busiest month for mosquito control, but this year demand has surged. “It’s usually after those rainfalls; it takes three weeks for those mosquitoes to go from eggs to adult mosquitoes,” Lindsey said. “When they lay the eggs, three weeks later they’re going to hatch, and if you’ve got water standing for that long, there are bound to be mosquitoes breeding in those areas.”

Health impact and warning signs

Dengue fever is spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Symptoms can range from mild fever and headache to severe abdominal pain, vomiting, and bleeding from the nose or gums. The CDC advises anyone experiencing stomach pain, persistent vomiting, or any sign of bleeding to seek emergency care immediately.

Local response

Counties across the state are stepping up control measures. In Brevard County, crews conduct overnight aerial and truck‑borne sprays, often working six to seven days a week to curb mosquito populations. Hillsborough County has reported one death linked to the outbreak, underscoring the seriousness of the situation.

What residents can do

Public‑health officials stress personal responsibility alongside government action. Residents should:

• Eliminate standing water in flower pots, gutters, birdbaths, and any containers that can collect rain.
• Use EPA‑registered insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus.
• Wear long‑sleeved, loose‑fitting clothing during peak mosquito activity at dawn and dusk.
• Keep windows and doors screened to prevent mosquitoes from entering homes.

By taking these steps, Floridians can help reduce the risk of infection while mosquito‑control teams work to lower the overall mosquito population.

Looking ahead

Health officials will continue to monitor case numbers closely. The CDC urges anyone traveling to or within Florida to remain vigilant, especially in areas with recent reports of dengue fever. Continued public cooperation and timely medical attention remain critical to containing the outbreak.

Original reporting: WESH Orlando — read the source article.