Dengue Fever Alert in Tampa Bay & Orlando

Health officials have confirmed active cases of dengue fever in Florida, including the Tampa Bay and Orlando areas. While many people associate dengue with international travel, local cases are now being reported—meaning the virus is present in our own communities.

Dengue fever is spread by the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito (the same type that spreads Zika and chikungunya). Most infections are mild, but in some cases it can become severe and even life-threatening. With the right precautions and quick medical attention, dengue can be managed safely.

How Dengue is Spread

• Dengue is transmitted through mosquito bites, not from person to person.

• A mosquito becomes infected when it bites someone who already has dengue, then spreads it to others.

• The Aedes mosquito is most active during the daytime but can also bite at night.

How to Protect Yourself and Your Family

1. Use mosquito repellent containing DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR3535.

2. Wear long sleeves and pants when outdoors, especially during early morning and late afternoon.

3. Eliminate standing water around your home (flowerpots, buckets, gutters, birdbaths, tires). Mosquitoes breed in as little as a bottle cap of water.

4. Use screens on windows and doors; repair any holes.

5. Consider mosquito-safe yard treatments or traps if you live in a high-mosquito area.

Warning Signs of Dengue Fever

Dengue symptoms usually appear 4–10 days after a mosquito bite and can last up to a week.

Common symptoms include:

• Sudden high fever (often 104°F or higher)

• Severe headache, especially behind the eyes

• Joint and muscle pain (“breakbone fever”)

• Rash

• Nausea and vomiting

Seek urgent medical attention if you notice:

• Severe abdominal pain

• Persistent vomiting

• Bleeding gums or nose

• Blood in stool or urine

• Difficulty breathing

• Fatigue, restlessness, or confusion

These can be signs of severe dengue, which is a medical emergency.

What To Do If You’re Concerned

• Do not self-medicate with ibuprofen or aspirin—these can worsen bleeding. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is safer for fever and pain.

• Stay hydrated with fluids and electrolytes.

• If you have symptoms, especially after being bitten by mosquitoes, contact a healthcare provider right away.

Olive Health is Here for You

At Olive Health, we provide accessible primary care across Tampa Bay and Orlando. If you’re worried about dengue fever symptoms—or need guidance on prevention—our team is here to help.

Call Olive Health today for evaluation, testing, and support.

Protect yourself, protect your family, and let’s work together to stop the spread of dengue in our community.