DENGUE FEVER CONF IRMED IN POLK COUNTY The Florida Department of Health in Polk County has confirmed a locally acquired case of dengue fever, prompting increased mosquito surveillance and prevention efforts by the Department of Health and Polk County Mosquito Control. Residents should take precautions to avoid mosquito bites and know the symptoms to watch for. Protect Yourself From Mosquito Bites Dengue is spread primarily through the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito. These mosquitoes can bite during both the day and night. The best protection is to prevent mosquito bites: • Use an EPA-registered insect repellent as directed. • Wear loose-fitting, long-sleeved shirts and long pants when spending time outdoors. • Keep doors and windows closed or use screens to keep mosquitoes outside. • Remove standing water around your home, including water in flowerpots, buckets, birdbaths and other containers where mosquitoes can breed. Know the Symptoms About one in four people infected with dengue develop symptoms. The most common symptom is a fever, often accompanied by headache, pain behind the eyes, muscle, joint or bone pain, nausea, vomiting or a rash. Symptoms typically last two to seven days. If you develop a fever or other symptoms consistent with dengue, particularly after mosquito exposure, contact your healthcare provider. A blood test is the only way to confirm a dengue infection. Know the Warning Signs Severe dengue can become life-threatening within hours. Seek immediate medical attention if symptoms include severe abdominal pain or tenderness, repeated vomiting, bleeding from the nose or gums, vomiting blood, blood in the stool, or extreme tiredness or restlessness. Warning signs often appear after the fever has gone away. For more information about dengue and mosquitobite prevention, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention at CDC.gov/dengue. 22
23 Publizr Home