Can You Get Dengue Fever in Florida?

The topic of Dengue fever has been making headlines, sparking worries about its spread in the United States. While the chances of Dengue fever making its way to Florida are minimal, it’s understandable that there might be some unease, especially in light of recent global health challenges.

To alleviate concerns, we’ve compiled key details about Dengue fever, including how it’s transmitted, its symptoms, and prevention measures

How Is Dengue Fever Transmitted?

Dengue fever spreads through the bites of Aedes mosquitoes infected with the virus. Contrary to some misconceptions, Dengue cannot be transmitted directly from one person to another. Instead, the cycle of transmission involves a mosquito biting an infected individual and then carrying the virus to others, fostering the spread in areas where the disease is already common.  

If there are Aedes mosquitoes in an area where there are no infected persons then the likelihood of its transmission is low especially since mosquitoes live for approximately two weeks. 

What is Dengue Fever?

Dengue fever is present in over 100 countries across various continents, including Africa, the Americas, the Eastern Mediterranean, Southeast Asia, and the Pacific Islands. Annually, there are between 100 and 400 million Dengue infections, with many cases not showing any symptoms. However, Dengue fever can become severe in roughly 500,000 individuals and results in approximately 40,000 deaths each year.

Symptoms of Dengue fever include:

• High fever
• Severe headache
• Pain behind the eyes
• Joint and muscle pain
• Fatigue
• Nausea and vomiting
• Skin rash typically occurs 2-5 days after fever
• Mild bleeding and easy bruising

Should You Be Concerned About Dengue Fever?

In the context of the United States, the likelihood of contracting dengue fever is remarkably low, akin to the odds of winning a major lottery. In 2023, Florida reported only two cases of local transmission. These instances underscore the potential for mosquito-borne diseases to extend their reach, prompting an investigation into their migration patterns. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) monitors dengue fever cases within the country, offering up-to-date information for those interested.

Mosquito Control Experts in Florida

Despite the low risk of dengue fever in Florida, remaining vigilant about mosquito control is crucial since it can still pose other health and hygiene issues. If concerns about mosquitoes arise, All Florida Pest Control stands ready to provide top-tier mosquito management solutions. Our services are designed to safeguard your home and community, delivering peace of mind by mitigating the risk of mosquito-borne diseases. Contact us for a free consultation.