Florida is facing an unusual surge in dengue fever, with health officials confirming a death as locally acquired infections continue to rise across the state.
The Florida Department of Health confirmed the death on September 18 but did not release additional information about the victim. More than 130 locally acquired cases have been reported in Hillsborough County, an area that normally records only a small number of infections each year. Statewide, Florida has reported 152 locally acquired cases in 2026.
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Health experts say dengue is transmitted by mosquitoes that thrive in warm conditions. Recent weather may have helped create favorable conditions for the insects responsible for spreading the virus.
Why is this outbreak concerning?
Dengue can cause fever, headaches and severe body pain, while serious infections can lead to bleeding, shock and, in rare cases, death.
Florida health officials are encouraging residents to reduce mosquito exposure and eliminate standing water around their homes as mosquito-control efforts continue.
