Local efforts to combat the spread of Dengue fever are ramping up in Orange County after the Florida Department of Health confirmed two cases of local transmission. According to a statement obtained by the Orange County Government, these are the first instances of the virus being contracted without travel outside the county or the U.S. Orange County Mosquito Control has swiftly launched targeted spraying operations to eliminate Aedes aegypti, the mosquito breed that carries the virus. Steve Harrison, Manager for Orange County Mosquito Control, affirmed that "We have both daytime and nighttime crews responding to the situation."
Orange County residents have been advised to remain vigilant as Mosquito Control crews work diligently to rapidly prevent further local transmission of the virus. As explained by Harrison, the mosquito that carries Dengue has a notably short flight radius, sticking close to where it contracted the virus, which could potentially make quarantine efforts more effective. "This virus is only spread by mosquitoes," Harrison told Orange County Government. "The mosquito can only get the virus by biting a person who has it."
The county's strategy involves deploying both daytime and nighttime crews to high-risk areas based on guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. This targeted approach aims to reduce the mosquito population and interrupt the cycle of transmission. The FDOH has been involved in directing efforts, signaling the seriousness with which this public health challenge is being taken.
Past Dengue cases in Orange County had been linked to travel outside the region. However, residents can now seek assistance if they encounter mosquitoes causing concern. The approved and safe control measures are being dispensed across the county, as Mosquito Control assures safety for humans and animals. For immediate relief or reports of mosquito infestation, citizens are encouraged to swiftly contact Orange County's 311 hotline. All chemical agents used in the fight against these mosquitoes are U.S. Environmental Protection Agency-approved, underscoring the county's commitment to public health.
