Can You Get Dengue Fever in Florida?

The topic of Dengue fever has surged in public discourse, especially regarding its potential expansion into the United States. For residents of Florida fretting over the chance of Dengue fever arriving at their homes, the risk is minimal.

Nevertheless, it’s a valid worry, prompting the creation of this blog to arm you with crucial knowledge about Dengue fever, its transmission mechanisms, and whether mosquito exterminators are necessary. 

How Is Dengue Fever Transmitted?

Dengue fever primarily spreads through the bite of Aedes mosquitoes carrying the virus. It’s a common misconception that Dengue can be transmitted directly from person to person. Instead, the transmission cycle involves a mosquito biting an infected person and then becoming capable of spreading the virus to others. This transmission method is particularly prevalent in regions with high incidences of Dengue fever.

What is Dengue Fever?

Dengue fever is a global concern, with occurrences in over 100 countries across continents such as Africa, the Americas, the Eastern Mediterranean, Southeast Asia, and the Western Pacific. Annually, the disease impacts an estimated 100 to 400 million people worldwide. Although many infected individuals might not exhibit symptoms, approximately 500,000 people endure severe forms of the disease each year, which results in about 40,000 fatalities.

Symptoms of Dengue fever include:

• High fever
• Severe headache
• Pain behind the eyes
• Joint and muscle pain
• Fatigue
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Skin rash, which appears two to five days after the onset of fever
• Mild bleeding (such as nose bleed, bleeding gums, or easy bruising)

Should You Be Concerned About Dengue Fever?

In the United States, and particularly in Florida, the risk of contracting Dengue fever is extremely low, almost akin to the odds of winning the lottery. In 2023, only two cases of local Dengue transmission were reported in Florida.

These cases serve as a reminder that vector-borne diseases can extend their reach into new areas. The emergence of Dengue in new locations has spurred various theories regarding its spread. The CDC offers the latest information and statistics for those interested in the prevalence of Dengue fever in the U.S.

Mosquito Control Experts in Florida

While Dengue fever poses a significant threat in many parts of the world, the likelihood of encountering it in Florida is currently very low. However, if you’re concerned about mosquito activity in your area, don’t hesitate to contact Hometown Pest Control for reliable mosquito control services. 

Our expertise can help ensure your peace of mind, keeping your home and community safe from the threats posed by mosquitoes.