Via WPTV.com: Martin County: Three dengue fever cases in TC prompt Health Department to issue alert. Excerpt:
Residents of Martin and St. Lucie counties are being urged to take precautionary measures against mosquito-borne illness after three cases of locally acquired dengue fever were confirmed in those counties, according to the Florida Department of Health in Martin County.
The affected individuals had no history of recent international travel. An investigation conducted by the health department in Martin and St. Lucie counties concluded that exposure may have come from local mosquitoes in the Rio neighborhood near Jensen Beach.
Dengue Fever is transmitted by the bite of an infected mosquito. Two types of mosquitoes - Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus - are known transmitters of the dengue viruses and are found in large number in Martin and St. Lucie counties, health officials said.
“Though some people may experience little to no symptoms, the most common symptoms of dengue include high fever, severe headache, joint and bone pain and rash.” said Karlette Peck, Health Officer for the Martin County Health Department. “People who have symptoms of dengue should contact their healthcare provider immediately.”
Health officials said that this is the second dengue case in Martin County. The county’s only previous case was contracted by a Port Salerno resident in August 2011. There have been no previous locally acquired cases in St. Lucie County.
Mosquito Control in Martin and St. Lucie Counties have been inspecting and treating properties in the affected areas, health officials said.Mike Coston at Avian Flu Diary also has the story, with very useful background.
