A dengue virus notice has been issued by health officials, so residents of Florida—especially those in the Keys—are advised to exercise caution. The news of the first locally acquired cases of dengue this year in the area comes after two confirmed cases of the mosquito-borne illness were discovered. Shortly before, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a nationwide advice alerting people to the heightened risk of dengue virus infections in the US. This development comes after several similar warnings.

Local virus transmission was demonstrated by the two instances that the Florida Department of Health in Monroe County confirmed. Given that travel has been a factor in the majority of dengue cases recorded in the US this year, this is worrying. While Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, which also carry the Zika and chikungunya viruses, are the primary vector for the fast spread of dengue fever, it is not communicable between individuals.

The Florida Keys Mosquito Control District has acted immediately in response to the recent cases in the Keys. They are stepping up door-to-door investigations, increasing the number of aerial spraying operations, and setting up more mosquito traps as part of their intensified efforts. As the main defense against dengue fever, public health officials are also advising locals to reduce mosquito bites.

“By stopping the larvae from developing into adult mosquitoes, we are attempting to be proactive and reduce the mass mosquito population,” Adriana Toro, a representative of Broward Mosquito Control, stated. To get rid of mosquito breeding grounds before they mature, larvacide granules are being sprayed. These initiatives are essential, particularly in light of the fact that Miami-Dade County has also reported locally acquired dengue cases this year, which has raised even more concerns.

A concerning trend is shown by the national advisory from the CDC. A startling 2,241 cases of dengue fever had been documented in the US as of July 2024. This figure is a huge increase over the previous year and suggests that there may be a severe outbreak. The number of cases has increased due to various variables, such as the increased activity of dengue worldwide and the favorable breeding conditions brought about by rising temperatures and increased precipitation, both of which are common in Florida.

Serious joint and muscular pain, a high temperature that can continue for up to a week, and occasionally a rash are flu-like symptoms that can accompany dengue fever. Dengue can develop into dengue hemorrhagic fever, a severe type that can be fatal even though the majority of cases are mild. Dengue does not currently have a specific treatment, but results can be greatly enhanced by prompt diagnosis and supportive care.

Here are some tips for preventing dengue fever for Floridians, especially those in the Keys:

Reduce mosquito bites by applying insect repellent that contains DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR3535 in accordance with the directions on the label.

When outside, especially during the hours of greatest mosquito bites (dawn and dusk), wear long sleeves and long pants.

Remove standing water from containers, gutters, and old tires to eliminate mosquito breeding grounds near your house.

Cover mattresses with mosquito nets, particularly for young children and newborns.

If you live in an area where dengue fever is locally transmitted or have been to an area where dengue activity is known, you should get medical help right away if you develop dengue fever symptoms. Complications may be avoided with early diagnosis and care.

A clear reminder of the value of mosquito control and personal preventive actions is provided by the recent dengue fever cases in the Florida Keys. Together, locals and public health experts can lessen the likelihood that this potentially dangerous sickness will spread.