Pasco County mosquito control officials are warning residents to take precautions against mosquito bites as locally acquired dengue cases increase across the Tampa Bay area. Recent surveillance data from the Florida Department of Health shows 30 confirmed cases in Hillsborough County, three in Pinellas County, and one in Citrus County, with additional suspected cases under investigation. While officials have identified a Pasco County resident with dengue, they have not yet determined where that person contracted the virus. The presence of dengue-positive Aedes aegypti mosquitoes in Hillsborough County indicates active transmission across the region. Officials are urging residents to dump standing water weekly, use insect repellent, wear protective clothing, and ensure proper screening on doors and windows to reduce their risk of infection.
Key Points:
- There are 30 confirmed locally acquired dengue cases in Hillsborough County, three in Pinellas County, and one in Citrus County according to Florida Department of Health surveillance data.
- Hillsborough County Mosquito Management Services has identified dengue-positive Aedes aegypti mosquito pools showing infected mosquitoes are actively contributing to transmission in the region.
- Dengue is primarily spread through the bite of an infected Aedes aegypti mosquito and symptoms can include fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, muscle and joint pain, nausea, vomiting and rash.
