Hillsborough County health officials have confirmed an eighth human case of locally acquired dengue fever, keeping the region under an ongoing mosquito-borne illness alert.
Dengue Fever Precautions
The Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County 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.
Symptoms typically develop within 15 days of an infected bite and can include a sudden fever, severe muscle and joint aches, and a rash. To reduce the risk of transmission, health officials advise residents to take preventative steps against mosquito bites and breeding.
Preventative measures include draining standing water, covering exposed skin, using insect repellent, and securing homes by repairing damaged window, door, porch, and patio screens to prevent mosquitoes from entering indoor spaces.
Original reporting: Tampa Free Press — read the source article.
