Hillsborough County is experiencing a significant health alert following the confirmation of six locally-acquired cases of dengue fever. This development has prompted county officials to escalate their mosquito control efforts to prevent further spread of the disease.
Dengue fever is an illness spread by mosquitoes, characterized by symptoms that typically emerge 3 to 14 days post-infection. These include the sudden onset of fever, severe headaches, pain behind the eyes, and intense muscle and joint pain—which has earned it the nickname ‘breakbone fever.’ Some individuals may also experience bleeding and gastrointestinal issues such as vomiting and diarrhea. These symptoms generally persist for 4 to 7 days.
Diagnosis of dengue fever can be challenging, as its symptoms are often misinterpreted as those of influenza or other viral infections. Despite the absence of a specific treatment for dengue fever and its more severe form, dengue hemorrhagic fever, timely identification and management of symptoms are crucial in preventing fatalities, say health authorities.
To combat the spread of dengue fever, the Florida Department of Health advises residents to adopt measures that minimize exposure to mosquitoes. Recommendations include draining standing water in various containers around homes, discarding unused items like old tires and containers that collect water, and maintaining swimming pools properly. People are also encouraged to use protective clothing and apply mosquito repellents containing DEET or other specified chemicals to reduce the risk of bites.
In a collaborative effort, the county health department and Hillsborough County Mosquito Control have intensified their surveillance and prevention strategies through aerial spraying, aiming to control the mosquito population effectively.
The emergence of dengue fever cases in Hillsborough County underscores the importance of proactive measures in combating mosquito-borne illnesses. Residents are urged to remain vigilant and implement recommended preventive actions to safeguard individual and community health.
Source: Fox13news
