Brandon Fletcher
Florida is facing a significant public health crisis as an alarming surge of dengue-spreading mosquitoes invades the state. These pests, known for their bloodsucking capabilities, are causing concern among residents and health officials alike.
Recently, three counties in Florida declared a state of emergency in response to what health experts describe as “wildly unusual” outbreaks of dengue fever. Nearly 200 cases of locally transmitted dengue have been reported in the state this year, approaching the previous record set in 2023. Tragically, at least one fatality has been linked to the viral illness.
Officials from Hillsborough County issued a statement noting that dengue now represents “an immediate and widespread threat to the public health, safety, and welfare of the residents and visitors of Hillsborough County.”
Understanding the Dengue Crisis
Dengue fever primarily spreads through the mosquito species Aedes aegypti, and to a lesser extent, Aedes albopictus. Both species are prevalent in the southern and eastern regions of the United States. While most dengue cases in the U.S. have historically been associated with international travel, states like Florida are now witnessing outbreaks originating from local mosquito populations.
The majority of individuals infected with dengue experience no symptoms. approximately 25% will develop flu-like symptoms, while 1 in 20 may suffer severe complications, including internal bleeding and shock. There are four distinct types of the dengue virus, and recovering from one type does not confer immunity to the others. In fact, individuals who contract dengue more than once face a heightened risk of severe illness during subsequent infections.
Florida has seen various spikes in dengue cases in recent years, including an emerging strain that was previously rare in the Americas. 2026 is on track to become the most significant year for dengue in modern history.
According to the latest data from the CDC, Florida has documented 392 total dengue cases this year, the highest in the nation. As of September 19th, surveillance data reveals 190 locally acquired cases, with 38 reported in just the previous week. The record for locally acquired cases stands at 199, set in 2023.
Hillsborough County has been the most affected area this year, reporting 170 cases. A resident of Hillsborough, identified as 80-year-old Gay Small, tragically died from dengue earlier this month. This marks the first recorded dengue-related death in Florida in nearly a century. Chris Wilkerson, a spokesperson for Hillsborough County, described this year’s outbreak as “wildly unusual” for the region.
Actions Being Taken to Combat Dengue
In response to the dengue surge, Hillsborough, Pasco, and Pinellas counties have declared local states of emergency. These declarations will facilitate access to funding and resources necessary for enhanced mosquito control measures, including aerial spraying initiatives.
Florida health authorities are urging residents to adopt additional precautions to protect themselves against mosquitoes during this outbreak. Recommended measures include the application of EPA-registered insect repellents, wearing long and loose-fitting clothing outdoors whenever possible, and eliminating standing water around homes to reduce mosquito breeding sites.
Mosquitoes thrive in Florida’s warm climate year-round, although they are most active through late fall.
Daniel Mercer
