Dengue Fever Case Confirmed In Miami-Dade
MIAMI (CBSMiami) - The first locally acquired case of Dengue Fever in Miami-Dade in 2014 has been confirmed by the health department.
"This person is a 50-year-old female who did not travel in the past months before developing the symptoms she didn't require hospitalization but she did go to a primary doctor who did order the appropriate tests," said Edhelene Rico with the Florida Department of Health in Miami-Dade.
The individual was diagnosed based on symptoms and confirmed by laboratory tests. The health department adds that the individual has fully recovered from this illness.
Dengue Fever is a viral disease transmitted by a type of mosquito common to the southeastern United States and the tropics.
And although the illness is not spread from person to person, residents are concerned about the news.
"It should be a concern to all of us because of all the health reasons that could spread. It should be a wake up call so we could take care our ourselves" said Rene Sardina a resident.
The symptoms of Dengue Fever include, fever (over 101 degrees Fahrenheit), severe headache, severe pain behind the eyes, muscle, joint and bone pain, rash, loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting.
There is no specific medication or vaccine for Dengue Fever.
All residents and visitors are urged to take appropriate measures to protect themselves against mosquito bites, which includes:
Drain Standing Water
• Drain water from garbage cans, buckets, pool covers, coolers, toys, flowerpots or any other containers where sprinkler or rainwater has collected.
• Discard old tires, drums, bottles, cans, pots and pans, broken appliances and
other items that aren't being used.
• Empty and clean birdbaths and pets' water bowls at least once or twice a week.
• Protect boats and vehicles from rain with tarps that don't accumulate water.
• Maintain swimming pools in good condition and appropriately chlorinated. Empty plastic swimming pools when not in use.
Cover Your Skin
• CLOTHING - If you must be outside when mosquitoes are active, cover up. Wear shoes, socks, long pants and long sleeves.
• REPELLENT - Apply mosquito repellent to bare skin and clothing. Always use repellents according to the label. Repellents with 10-30% DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, and IR3535 are effective.
• Use mosquito netting to protect children younger than 2 months old.
Cover Doors And Windows With Screens
• Keep mosquitoes out of your house. Repair broken screening on windows, doors, porches, and patios.
The Florida Department of Health in Miami Dade is also warning residents about another mosquito borne illness chikungunya while that has not been acquired in the U.S. it is something to be aware of.
If you have a mosquito problem in your home or your neighborhood you can call 311 and Mosquito Control will be sent out.
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