Video above: New Cuban mosquito-borne illness found in Tampa Bay area; experts concerned
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — Pasco County mosquito control officials are warning residents of an increase in mosquito-borne illness in the area.
Officials confirmed a case of dengue fever in the county and said they are stepping up surveillance and control measures to prevent more people from getting sick.
The virus, spread through mosquito bites, can cause symptoms like headache, fever, chills, muscle, bone and joint pain, nausea, vomiting, pain behind the eyes and a rash.
To protect themselves, residents should minimize their exposure to mosquitos.
- Wear long sleeve shirts and pants, especially if outside around dusk or dawn
- Cover up any exposed skin
- Use insect repellant that has the ingredient Deet
- Drain standing water around homes
- Educate and inform the community about the dangers of mosquitos
- See a doctor if experiencing symptoms after being bit, like fever, chills, or nausea
Residents should also make sure standing water doesn’t collect on their property, as it becomes a breeding ground for mosquitos.
- Drain water from garbage cans, house gutters, buckets, pool covers, coolers, toys, flower pots or any other containers where sprinkler or rain water has collected
- Discard old tires, drums, bottles, cans, pots and pans, broken appliances, and other items that aren’t being used
- Empty and clean birdbaths and pet’s water bowls at least once per week
- Protect boats and vehicles from rain with tarps that don’t accumulate water
- Maintain swimming pools in good condition and appropriately chlorinated. Empty plastic
swimming pools when not in use
For additional information or to report mosquito concerns, contact the Pasco County Mosquito Control District at 727-376-4568 or visit their website.
