SEMINOLE COUNTY, Fla. – Concerns about dengue fever are prompting Seminole County workers to increase mosquito control measures across the region.
The Florida Department of Health has issued a mosquito-borne illness alert or advisory for several counties. In response, Mosquito Control officials are conducting enhanced surveillance and targeted control measures to reduce the chances of spreading the illness.
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While no confirmed cases of dengue fever have been reported in Seminole County, at least three cases have been announced in neighboring Orange County.
Florida has seen a surge in dengue cases this summer, particularly locally acquired cases. According to the latest Florida Arbovirus Surveillance report, which tracks mosquito-borne illnesses, the state recorded 152 locally acquired cases. The vast majority are in the Tampa Bay area, with 134 cases in Hillsborough County alone.
In Seminole County, Mosquito Control has been monitoring, treating and addressing requests from residents. As of Sept. 24, 178 service requests have been submitted and more than 32,000 acres have been fogged.
Earlier this year, Seminole County announced it adopted new technology that uses artificial intelligence to quickly identify mosquitoes and determine options for treatment. More than 20,000 mosquitoes were collected in traps last week, and crews have been fogging nightly while applying larvicide during the day.
To protect against mosquitoes, residents are urged to drain standing water around their homes and use EPA-registered mosquito repellent when outdoors. Seminole County residents who need assistance can call 407-665-5542 or submit a service request by clicking here.
