Florida battles its largest dengue outbreak in decades as cases surge across the state

THE TAKEAWAY

FLORIDA - A mosquito-borne virus is surging across Florida, with three counties declaring states of emergency as health officials work to contain the spread of dengue fever.

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Pasco, Hillsborough and Pinellas counties have declared states of emergency because of the outbreak, allowing officials to expedite mosquito-control operations, make emergency purchases, coordinate response efforts and seek state or federal assistance and reimbursement.

As of Oct. 7, more than 2,100 dengue cases have been reported across the U.S., including more than 480 cases in Florida, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The outbreak appears to be the largest seen in the continental U.S. in several decades.

Hillsborough County has reported the most cases in Florida, with 230, followed by Miami-Dade County with 157.

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Last month, an 80-year-old Tampa woman died from dengue fever, marking Florida's first reported fatality from the disease during the current outbreak.

According to the Florida Department of Health, dengue fever is a mosquito-borne viral disease related to viruses that cause West Nile and yellow fever.

Dengue is commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions, including the Caribbean, Central and South America and Asia. 

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Florida's proximity to areas where dengue is circulating, including Puerto Rico, along with frequent international travel, creates opportunities for the virus to be reintroduced into the state.

"The Aedes mosquitoes that can transmit dengue are active during the day and thrive in warm, humid environments like those found in Florida," an entomologist spokesperson for the SC Johnson Center for Insect Science and Family Health, makers of OFF!, told FOX News Digital in a statement.

About 1 in 4 people infected with dengue develop symptoms, according to the CDC. Among those who become sick, about 1 in 20 develop severe dengue, which can cause shock, internal bleeding and death.

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Dengue fever can cause intense symptoms, including high fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes and muscle and joint pain. Some people may also experience nausea, vomiting or diarrhea.

Because there is no widely available vaccine to prevent dengue for most travelers and residents, experts say the best way to reduce the risk of infection is to prevent mosquito bites.

Health officials recommend using EPA-registered insect repellent, wearing loose-fitting clothing that covers the arms and legs, and taking steps to limit exposure to mosquitoes.

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"As dengue cases continue to be reported in the Tampa area, taking steps to help prevent mosquito bites is especially important," the entomologist spokesperson told FOX News Digital. "Staying aware of local mosquito activity and consistently protecting against bites are important steps people can take to help reduce their risk."