Florida has confirmed a death linked to dengue fever, marking one of the state’s worst outbreaks in decades. The Florida Department of Health announced the death on Friday, though it did not release additional details. According to the Tampa Bay Times, the victim was an elderly woman from Tampa who passed away on September 4. This case adds to the growing concern over the spread of dengue in the region. Hillsborough County, which includes Tampa, has reported more than 130 locally acquired dengue cases this year — a sharp increase from the usual few cases seen annually. Chris Wilkerson, a spokesperson for the county, described the situation as “wildly unusual.” Dengue is a viral infection transmitted by the Aedes mosquito, a species that thrives in warm climates and is expanding its range due to climate change. Recent weather patterns in Florida may have created ideal conditions for the mosquitoes to multiply and spread the virus. Dengue has historically been rare in the United States, with most cases linked to travelers who became infected abroad or in Puerto Rico. However, in 2009-2010, Key West, Florida, saw the first locally acquired dengue cases in the continental U.S. in over 60 years. The largest outbreak in the state occurred in 2023, with nearly 200 locally acquired cases. This year’s total of 152 cases is the second-highest on record. Many people infected with dengue do not show symptoms, which means the actual number of infections could be higher than reported. Those who do get sick may experience fever, headache, and flu-like symptoms, while severe cases can lead to internal bleeding, shock, and even death. Globally, the World Health Organization reported over 2.2 million dengue infections and nearly 1,200 deaths this year. In the U.S., the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has documented nearly 1,500 locally acquired cases, most in Puerto Rico. In Florida, the outbreak is concentrated just north of Tampa, where mosquito control workers have been conducting round-the-clock spraying and checking properties for standing water, which can serve as breeding grounds for the mosquitoes. Recent mosquito samples have not detected the virus, suggesting the risk of new infections may be decreasing. Experts warn that dengue is likely to remain a recurring threat in Florida. Michael von Fricken, an associate professor at the University of Florida, noted that the persistent presence of Aedes mosquitoes makes dengue a potential “new normal” in the region. He emphasized the importance of continued mosquito control efforts and public awareness to reduce the risk of future outbreaks.