Broward County in Florida has recently been placed under a mosquito-borne illness alert due to the increasing spread of dengue virus cases. This alert comes as Miami-Dade County also grapples with the illness, indicating a concerning trend in the state. The Florida Department of Health has reported two cases of locally acquired dengue in Broward County alone.
According to the department, there have been a total of 10 locally acquired dengue cases in Florida this year, with the majority of cases reported in July. Miami-Dade County has seen the highest number of cases thus far. In comparison, Broward County only had two locally acquired dengue cases reported in 2022.
Moreover, the department has also recorded nearly 200 cases in individuals who had traveled to dengue-endemic areas before experiencing symptoms. Out of these cases, 10 were non-Florida residents, and one case was classified as severe dengue.
Dengue is typically not present in Florida but can be brought back by infected travelers. This highlights the importance of practicing caution while traveling to areas where the virus is endemic. People at a higher risk of contracting dengue include those who have had previous dengue infections, pregnant women, infants, the elderly, and individuals with underlying health conditions. However, it is important to note that severe illness can also occur in individuals without any of these risk factors.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported a total of 225 dengue cases across various states in the U.S. this year. The CDC began monitoring dengue virus disease as a nationally notifiable condition in 2010, underscoring the need for heightened awareness and surveillance of the illness.
In light of the increasing dengue cases in Florida, it is crucial for residents to take appropriate precautions such as using mosquito repellents, wearing protective clothing, and ensuring that stagnant water is properly eliminated to prevent mosquito breeding. It is also advisable for individuals to seek medical attention if they experience symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, joint and muscle pain, rash, and fatigue, as these may be indicative of dengue infection.
As the dengue outbreak continues to unfold in Florida, it is imperative for authorities and healthcare providers to work together in controlling the spread of the virus and ensuring the well-being of the community.
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