Full Breakdown
Florida Faces Surge in Locally Acquired Dengue Cases
9/8/2026, 12:37:08 AM
Rising Local Transmission in Tampa Bay and Beyond
Florida health officials report a sharp increase in locally acquired dengue fever cases across Tampa Bay and other counties. The Florida Department of Health’s latest arbovirus surveillance report listed 73 locally acquired cases statewide through August 29, with most in Hillsborough County. Mosquito-control agencies have intensified aerial and ground spraying, property inspections, and public education campaigns.
Background & Context
Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne viral illness that can cause high fever, severe muscle and joint pain, rash, and, in rare instances, life-threatening complications. Although historically rare in the continental United States, the CDC reported in May that 2024 was a record year for dengue in the U.S., with 3,798 cases nationwide—a 359 % increase over the 2010-2023 average. About 97 % were travel-associated, while roughly 3 % were locally acquired.
Data & Statistics
- 73 locally acquired cases statewide (as of August 29) – 59 in Hillsborough, 7 in Miami-Dade, 5 in Pinellas, 1 in Palm Beach, and 1 in Pasco.
- 14 mosquito pools in Hillsborough County tested positive for DENV-2, including four positive pools in the most recent week.
- Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus are the vectors identified in Florida.
- 136 travel-related dengue cases were also reported in the state.
Official Statements & Responses
State Surgeon General Dr. Joseph Ladapo warned that additional cases are expected and urged residents to use insect repellent, wear protective clothing, and eliminate standing water. Dr. Peter Jiang, president of Hillsborough County Mosquito Management, emphasized sustained control efforts. Dr. Carla Fry, health officer for the Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County, highlighted repellent use as the “biggest line of defense” and reminded the public that even a teaspoon of clean water can serve as a breeding site.
On-the-Ground Reports
Mosquito-control crews have deployed low-flying helicopters to treat neighborhoods such as Wellswood, Riverside Heights, and East Tampa with Bti, a bacterium that targets mosquito larvae. Ground teams conduct door-to-door inspections to locate and eliminate containers that hold standing water. Residents are reminded to follow the “three Ds”: Dress in long sleeves and closed-toe shoes, Defend with CDC-recommended repellents, and Dump any standing water.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
- Case counts differ between outlets: Fox13 reported 65 cases across Hillsborough, Pasco, and Pinellas counties, while the state report cites 73 statewide cases.
- County breakdowns vary; Fox13’s earlier figures listed 30 cases in Hillsborough and three in Pinellas, whereas the later state report shows 59 and five respectively.
- No information is provided on the timing of upcoming public-health advisories or additional resource allocations.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We do expect to see more cases. There are actions we can take to reduce the propagation of these terrible, annoying mosquitos,” — General Dr. Joseph Ladapo, state surgeon
- “We cannot let our guard down. We have to keep the pressure on mosquitos,” — Dr. Peter Jiang, president of Hillsborough County Mosquito Management
