(Source-foxnews.com_)
Two cases of locally acquired dengue fever, a mosquito bites, have been confirmed in the Florida Keys, according to an announcement earlier this week from the Florida Department of Health in Monroe County.
The Monroe Department of Health and the Florida Keys Mosquito Control District (FKMCD) are increasing their surveillance and prevention efforts in response to the emerging cases. These measures include door-to-door mosquito bites inspections, enhanced trapping and monitoring, and aerial and truck-mounted larvicide and adulticide treatments.
Symptoms and Transmission
Dengue fever can cause a range of flu-like symptoms, including severe muscle aches, joint pain, fever, and rashes. The illness is not contagious between humans and can only be spread through the bite of an infected mosquito bites . Symptoms typically appear within 14 days of being bitten by a dengue-carrying mosquito bites .
Residents are urged to take basic precautions against mosquito bites. The health department recommends using bug repellent on skin and clothing, maintaining window screens, using air conditioning, and keeping doors and windows closed when possible. Additionally, the FKMCD advises property owners to eliminate standing water where mosquitoes breed. This includes turning over or removing empty pots, buckets, trash cans, recycling bins, pet bowls, and children’s toys that collect water. Property owners should also ensure tarps on boats or other equipment and gutters are clear of debris, and regularly flush fresh water through hanging plants and bird baths.
Healthcare Advisory
The CDC has advised healthcare providers to be vigilant for symptoms of dengue and to conduct appropriate diagnostic tests. Dr. Marty Makary, a professor at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, emphasized the seriousness of the infection during an appearance on FOX Business’ ‘Varney & Co.’ However, he noted that while the infection is dangerous, it does not pose the threat of ‘another pandemic.’
Dengue fever is endemic in many tropical and warm countries. It is characterized by symptoms such as eye pain and a distinctive rash. Although diagnostic tests are available, there is currently no specific treatment for dengue fever. Dr. Makary emphasized the importance of reducing mosquito bites, particularly in the southern United States where the disease is more prevalent.
Mosquito bites Species and Dengue Transmission
Florida authorities have identified the yellow fever mosquito bites (Aedes aegypti) as the primary vector for spreading dengue fever. However, the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) has also warned that the tiger mosquito (Aedes albopictus) can carry the infection. Both mosquito bites species are considered invasive and aggressive, highlighting the need for ongoing vigilance and preventive measures.
With the confirmation of local dengue fever cases in the Florida Keys, it is crucial for residents and health officials to take preventive actions to mitigate the spread of this mosquito-borne illness. By following recommended precautions and eliminating potential breeding sites, the community can work together to reduce the risk of dengue fever and protect public health.
