BREAKING NEWS: Broward County Under Mosquito-Borne Illness Alert as Dengue Virus Spreads
Florida health officials have declared a mosquito-borne illness alert in Broward County, as cases of dengue virus continue to spread. This announcement comes after Miami-Dade County also saw an increase in dengue virus cases.
According to the Florida Department of Health’s arbovirus surveillance report from July 30 to August 5, there have been two locally-acquired cases of dengue in Broward County. These cases add to the 10 reported instances of locally-acquired dengue in the state this year, with the majority of cases occurring in Miami-Dade County.
“In 2022, there were two locally acquired dengue cases,” stated the department in Broward County.
The department revealed that almost 200 cases have been reported this year in individuals who had a history of travel to dengue-endemic areas within two weeks before the onset of symptoms. Out of these cases, 10 were non-Florida residents, and one met the criteria for severe dengue.
Dengue, a viral disease transmitted by infected mosquitoes, is not typically seen in Florida. However, the virus can be brought back to the state by travelers infected abroad.
People at higher risk of contracting dengue include those with previous dengue infection, pregnant women, infants, the elderly, and individuals with co-morbidities. Nevertheless, severe illness can occur in individuals without any known risk factors.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported a total of 225 dengue cases across various U.S. states this year. Dengue virus disease became a nationally notifiable condition in 2010.
As the dengue virus continues to spread, health officials are urging residents to take necessary precautions to protect themselves from mosquito bites. Measures such as wearing long sleeves and pants, using insect repellents, and eliminating standing water in and around homes can significantly reduce the risk of mosquito-borne illnesses.
For more information and updates on the dengue virus situation in Broward County and across the country, people are encouraged to stay informed through reliable sources such as the Florida Department of Health and the CDC.
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