HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, FL — The Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County has issued a mosquito-borne illness advisory after confirming a locally acquired case of dengue in the county.
Health officials are working with Hillsborough County Mosquito Management to increase mosquito surveillance and conduct targeted treatment efforts to help reduce the risk of additional infections.
Residents are encouraged to take precautions to avoid mosquito bites by:
• Using EPA-approved insect repellent.
• Wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants when outdoors.
• Draining standing water around homes where mosquitoes can breed.
• Keeping window and door screens in good repair.
The Florida Department of Health continues statewide surveillance for mosquito-borne illnesses, including West Nile virus, Eastern equine encephalitis, St. Louis encephalitis, malaria, chikungunya, and dengue.
Officials also encourage residents to report dead birds to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, as they can help monitor certain mosquito-borne diseases.
Health officials remind the public that preventing mosquito bites remains the best way to reduce the risk of mosquito-borne illnesses.
SOURCE: HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT
