Dengue Fever Confirmed in Hillsborough County: What You Need to Know and How to Protect Your Family
Tampa, FL – Health officials have issued an alert after a case of locally-acquired dengue fever was confirmed in Hillsborough County. This news serves as a stark reminder of the importance of mosquito control, especially during the warm Florida months when mosquito populations thrive.
What is Dengue Fever?
Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne illness that can cause flu-like symptoms, including high fever, headache, joint pain, and rash. In severe cases, dengue can lead to a life-threatening condition called dengue hemorrhagic fever. While most cases of dengue are mild, the risk of severe illness underscores the need for vigilance and preventative measures.
How Can You Protect Yourself and Your Family?
- Eliminate Standing Water: Mosquitoes breed in standing water. Regularly check your property for containers that can collect water, such as flower pots, buckets, and old tires. Drain or remove these potential breeding grounds.
- Wear Protective Clothing: When spending time outdoors, especially during dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active, wear long sleeves, long pants, and socks to reduce exposed skin.
- Use Mosquito Repellent: Apply an EPA-registered insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus to exposed skin and clothing.
- Repair Screens: Make sure windows and doors have intact screens to prevent mosquitoes from entering your home.
Mosquito Shield Central Tampa: Your Partner in Mosquito Control
At Mosquito Shield Central Tampa, we understand the concerns of residents in Hillsborough County. Our proven mosquito control solutions create a barrier around your property, significantly reducing the mosquito population and the risk of disease transmission.
Our services are designed to target mosquitoes at every stage of their life cycle, providing comprehensive protection for your family and pets. Don’t let mosquitoes ruin your outdoor enjoyment. Contact us today to learn how we can help you reclaim your yard.
Stay Informed and Stay Safe
Staying informed is crucial in protecting your family from mosquito-borne illnesses. Follow local news sources like WFLA-TV News Channel 8 for updates on the dengue situation in Hillsborough County.
Remember, we’re all in this together. By taking proactive steps to control mosquitoes and protect ourselves, we can create a safer and healthier community for everyone.pen_spark