Dengue Cases Surge in Tampa Bay Area, Pinellas County Expands Mosquito Control Efforts
The Tampa Bay area is experiencing a surge in dengue fever cases, with state health officials reporting an additional 32 locally acquired cases in the week ending August 29, bringing the total autochthonous cases in Florida to 73. The new cases were primarily reported in Hillsborough County (29), with Pinellas (2) and Pasco counties (1) also contributing. Hillsborough County now accounts for 59 cases, with Pinellas having 5. In response, Pinellas County Mosquito Control is expanding its efforts, focusing on ground inspections and dawn fogging in the Palm Harbor and St. Petersburg areas. They are also urging residents countywide to take precautions to prevent mosquito breeding. Hillsborough County Mosquito Management Services conducted aerial applications of Dibrom insecticide, and Pasco County Mosquito Control District is providing specialized aerial assistance, including liquid Bti applications targeting mosquito larvae in specific Tampa neighborhoods. 
