A Vista resident is currently hospitalized after contracting the second locally acquired dengue fever case reported by the County this month. Unlike the previous case in Escondido, this individual had not traveled to any dengue-endemic regions, indicating a rare instance of the disease being transmitted by mosquitoes on a local level.
In response, County interim deputy public health officer Dr. Seema Shah emphasized that vigilance is essential while the risk remains low. "As always, the County is closely monitoring these recent cases of locally acquired dengue and quickly responding to prevent the spread of illness,” Shah stated via County News Center, recognizing the slight uptick in local and nationwide dengue cases. County Vector Control is actively engaging in mosquito eradication efforts around approximately 60 homes in Vista through October 29 to combat the spread.
Dengue fever, typically a tropical affliction, is caused by a virus transmitted through mosquito bites. Symptoms vary from mild to severe and include fever, chills, and a variety of aches and pains, potentially escalating to shock and respiratory distress. While most recover within a week, severe cases can necessitate hospitalization and, in rare circumstances, prove fatal. Since the invasive Aedes mosquitoes arrived in San Diego County in 2014, local dengue cases have been exceedingly uncommon, this being only the second reported incident.
To thwart the spread of dengue, county technicians are employing AquaDuet, an EPA-approved pesticide aimed at decreasing adult mosquito populations. Starting on Wednesday, door hangers were placed in residents' homes within the treatment area to alert them. While the pesticide is deemed low risk to humans and pets and dissipates within half an hour, residents are advised to stay indoors during the application, cover fishponds, and rinse fruits and vegetables before consumption.
Amid this public health issue, the County is setting boots on the ground with pesticide sprayers and taking time to engage with citizens directly. Public health staff will be in Vista on Saturday and Monday to provide information about the disease and answer any pressing questions the community may have about these recent developments or how to protect themselves.
