dengue

Scientists are developing new approaches to control mosquitoes, the animal responsible for more human deaths than any other, as climate change lengthens mosquito seasons and expands the areas where the insects can spread diseases such as malaria and dengue. Reporting highlights that longer warm periods give mosquitoes more time to breed and transmit dangerous illnesses, prompting research into novel targeting methods.

Several Florida counties have declared a state of emergency following an outbreak of dengue fever, a mosquito-borne viral illness. Local health officials are urging residents to take precautions against mosquito bites as the region grapples with the spread of the disease, which can cause severe flu-like symptoms.

Hillsborough County has asked Lee County for mosquito control assistance as Florida confronts a dengue outbreak. Local health officials have been urging residents to guard against mosquito bites as cases are confirmed, and the request for out-of-county support highlights the strain on local control operations. Residents are being advised to drain standing water and use repellent.