Rising Dengue Fever Cases in Florida Post-Hurricane Milton

What is Dengue Fever?

Dengue fever is a viral infection spread by certain types of mosquitoes, primarily the Aedes species. Symptoms often include fever, body aches, joint pain, fatigue, and occasionally a rash. Most cases are mild, but severe dengue can lead to serious health issues and requires medical attention.

How Hurricanes Increase Mosquito-Borne Illness Risk

Hurricane Milton left behind widespread standing water due to heavy rainfall and flooding. This stagnant water provides breeding grounds for mosquitoes, increasing the chances of mosquito-borne diseases, including dengue and West Nile virus, both now detected in the region.

Local Health Response

Health authorities in Tampa Bay and surrounding counties are actively working to reduce mosquito populations. These measures include draining stagnant water where possible and targeted mosquito control efforts. Residents are also being encouraged to take personal measures to prevent mosquito bites and reduce standing water on their properties.

Steps for Community Safety and Prevention

Taking simple actions can help prevent mosquito breeding and protect yourself and your family:

• Eliminate standing water: Regularly empty outdoor items like pots, gutters, and any containers that collect rainwater.
• Apply mosquito repellents: Use repellents as a first line of defense, especially during early morning and evening hours when mosquitoes are most active.
• Ensure window screens are intact: Mosquito screens on windows and doors can help keep mosquitoes out of your home.
• Wear protective clothing outdoors: Wearing long sleeves and pants adds an extra layer of protection from bites.

At the American Acorn Foundation, we are dedicated to promoting health and safety in disaster-impacted communities. As part of our mission, we aim to spread awareness and encourage preventative actions to help reduce health risks like mosquito-borne illnesses. Together, through individual and collective efforts, we can make a difference and keep our communities safe from preventable health risks.

For more information on our work or to join our efforts, please visit our website at aafus.org.