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Florida Dengue Cases Surge, Mosquitoes Thrive
26 Oct
Summary
- Florida dengue cases nearly doubled in a month, reaching 721.
- Climate change is boosting mosquito numbers and activity.
- Severe dengue symptoms require immediate medical attention.
Dengue cases in Florida have significantly increased, with the state reporting 721 cases as of October 22, 2026. This represents a near doubling from the 392 cases recorded in September. The outbreak is particularly concentrated in Hillsborough County, where cases have nearly doubled since last month.
Experts link the rise in dengue to climate change, which is contributing to larger mosquito populations and extending their seasonal activity. This environmental shift is facilitating the spread of the mosquito-borne illness.
While approximately 75% of dengue infections are asymptomatic, about 1 in 4 individuals develop symptoms like fever, headache, and rash. Severe dengue, which can lead to shock and internal bleeding, affects about 1 in 20 infected individuals and requires urgent medical care. Warning signs of severe dengue include severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, bleeding from the gums or nose, and extreme fatigue.
