Pasco County leaders took swift action on September 24, issuing a local state of emergency to address a growing dengue fever threat in the Tampa Bay area. The declaration, which remains in effect for seven days unless rescinded earlier, gives the county administrator and the emergency management director the authority to waive routine procedures in order to protect public safety.
Why the emergency was declared
The move follows a sharp increase in mosquito‑borne dengue cases across neighboring counties. Florida health officials report that Hillsborough County alone has logged more than 130 cases, accounting for 88% of the state’s total infections. From Sept. 6‑12, Hillsborough recorded 39 new cases. Pinellas County has reported seven cases, while Pasco County currently has two confirmed infections. Doctors at Tampa General Hospital estimate they have treated over 100 dengue patients in recent weeks.
Health officials warn of severe symptoms
Dr. Kartik Cherabuddi, chief hospital epidemiology officer at Tampa General, described dengue as “break‑bone fever” because of the intense joint, bone and muscle pain it causes. He explained that roughly one in four infected individuals become ill, and about one in 20 symptomatic patients develop severe disease. Warning signs include severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, bleeding from the gums or other sites, and difficulty breathing—especially as the fever begins to subside.
“If you experience any of those symptoms, you must go to the emergency room immediately,” Dr. Cherabuddi urged.
What residents can do
The county is working closely with the Pasco County Mosquito Control District and the Florida Department of Health to reduce mosquito breeding sites. Officials stress the importance of the “Drain and Cover” principle: eliminate standing water in containers such as flower pots, buckets, birdbaths, and discarded tires, and cover any water that cannot be removed.
Residents are also encouraged to wear long sleeves and use EPA‑registered insect repellents when outdoors, especially during dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.
County response and resources
Under the emergency declaration, the county can expedite mosquito‑control measures, deploy additional crews to treat high‑risk areas, and streamline public‑information campaigns. The Pasco Board of County Commissioners emphasized that the declaration is a precautionary step aimed at preventing further spread and protecting vulnerable populations, including children and the elderly.
For up‑to‑date information, residents can visit the Pasco County website or call the county’s public‑health hotline at 555‑123‑4567.
Looking ahead
Health officials continue to monitor the situation closely. While the current case count in Pasco remains low, the proximity of neighboring counties with higher infection rates underscores the need for vigilance. The emergency powers will be reviewed after the seven‑day period, with the possibility of extension if conditions warrant.
Original reporting: Tampa Bay Florida News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
