03 Nov 2022 | 12:18 AM UTC
US: Elevated dengue fever activity reported in Florida through October
Dengue fever activity continues in Florida, US, during October. Miami-Dade is the most affected county. Avoid mosquito bites.
Event
Health authorities identified 36 locally acquired cases of dengue fever in Florida, US, reported between Jul. 10-Oct. 29. This caseload is compared to no cases observed over a similar period in 2021. Most cases are observed from Miami-Dade (32 cases) county, with cases also reported from Broward (two cases), Collier (one case), and Volusia (one case) counties. Peak activity was observed in August (17 cases) and has since declined with nine cases reported in September and only four cases in October. This report represents the most complete data available as of Nov. 2.
Context
While most cases in the US are reported in the US territories of American Samoa, Guam, Puerto Rico, and the US Virgin Islands, sporadic locally acquired cases have also been reported in Florida, Hawaii, and Texas. Risk is seasonal and varies by location. Florida reported no locally acquired cases of dengue fever in 2021, 71 cases in 2020, and 16 cases in 2019.
A dengue fever vaccine is available in some countries. It is only recommended for individuals with a history of dengue infection and in a country with high dengue fever burden. Dengue fever is transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito. Risk of infection is often highest in urban and semi-urban areas. Symptoms of dengue fever include a sudden onset of fever and at least one of the following: severe headache, severe pain behind the eyes, muscle and/or joint pain, rash, easy bruising, and/or nose or gum bleeding. Symptoms typically appear 5-7 days after being bitten, but can develop up to 10 days after exposure. Dengue fever can progress to a more severe form known as dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF). DHF can be fatal if it is not recognized and treated in a timely manner.
Advice
If you have previously been infected with dengue fever, consult with your physician regarding vaccination. Avoid mosquito bites and remove standing water to reduce the number of biting mosquitoes. Seek medical attention if symptoms develop within two weeks of being in affected areas. Do not use aspirin or ibuprofen products if dengue fever is suspected, as these could exacerbate bleeding tendencies associated with the disease.