Florida has recorded 425 cases of locally acquired dengue fever in 2026, marking the state’s largest outbreak in decades. As infections spread to 11 counties, including new cases in Seminole and Brevard, officials have extended states of emergency to accelerate mosquito control efforts and combat the Aedes aegypti population.
Record-Breaking Dengue Spread Across 11 Counties
The current dengue outbreak has surpassed previous records, with 425 locally acquired cases confirmed across 11 Florida counties as of October 17, 2026. This total significantly exceeds the 62 cases reported in 2025 and the previous annual high of 199 cases set in 2023.
The geographic reach of the virus continues to expand. While Hillsborough and Pinellas counties have reported the highest volumes—with Pinellas recording 51 cases—the virus has recently emerged in Citrus, Manatee, and Brevard counties. In Central Florida, Seminole County health officials confirmed their first locally acquired case of the year in the Winter Springs area on October 21. Alan Harris, director of Seminole County Emergency Management, noted that the individual, who works in Winter Springs, reported mosquito bites near their place of employment. Harris added that the county is currently testing at least two additional potential cases to determine if they are locally acquired.
Dengue, sometimes referred to as breakbone fever due to the intense pain it causes, involves symptoms such as fever, muscle aches, headaches, joint pain, and rashes.
Counties Extend Emergencies for Aerial Larvae Treatments
To curb the transmission cycle, local governments have extended emergency declarations, allowing for expedited funding and expanded mosquito control operations. Hillsborough and Pinellas counties have extended their respective states of emergency through October 29. In Pinellas County, officials are partnering with Lee County Mosquito Control to deploy up to four helicopters for aerial larvae treatments in St. Petersburg and Clearwater. These treatments occur between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. to target larvae in standing water, using a fine mist of Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (Bti), which is not harmful to humans, pets, or pollinators.
The aerial operations target Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, which are uniquely adapted to breeding in small, man-made containers near homes. Pinellas County staff are also conducting door-to-door outreach to help residents identify and eliminate standing water sources, such as discarded tires, which are common breeding grounds. Pinellas officials recently noted that an increase in West Nile virus activity in sentinel chicken coops serves as an additional early warning for potential human transmission.
Pasco County Uses Aircraft for Disease Surveillance
Beyond aerial spraying, county districts are utilizing ground-based surveillance to monitor the risk of disease transmission. In Pasco County, the Mosquito Control District has integrated fixed-wing aircraft into its response. Pasco County Mosquito Control District Commissioner Matthew “Skeeter” Abbott stated, Fortunately, we're prepared. We've got the expertise — we certainly have the expertise and the equipment here.
The intensity of these operations has brought risks to the teams involved. Adriane Rogers, Executive Director of the Pasco County Mosquito Control District, noted that the industry recently mourned the loss of a Manatee County Mosquito Control District pilot who died while on the job. Rogers emphasized the inherent dangers of the work, noting that pilots must fly at very low levels to ensure effective mosquito control.
Health Officials Advise Residents on Mosquito Prevention
Isabella White, FDOH press secretary, advised residents to take precautions by appropriately applying bug spray, avoiding areas with high mosquito populations, and wearing long pants and shirts when possible, especially during sunrise and sunset when mosquitoes are most active. Residents are encouraged to:
- Drain standing water around properties, including buckets, pots, trash can lids, and kiddie pools.
- Apply EPA-registered insect repellents containing DEET, Picaridin, IR3535, or Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus.
- Wear long-sleeved clothing and pants when outdoors.
- Repair window and door screens to keep mosquitoes out of living spaces.
While the state confirmed one death related to dengue in Hillsborough County on September 18, most infections do not result in severe complications. However, the CDC notes that severe dengue can be a medical emergency, potentially causing shock or internal bleeding. Residents who believe they have contracted the virus are advised to contact their local Florida Department of Health office for guidance. Readers should consult with a qualified medical professional for personal health concerns, as this information is for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice.