Published on: September 23, 2026
Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne viral illness that has become an increasing concern in Tampa and throughout Hillsborough County in 2026. Florida has reported more than 100 locally acquired cases this year, including many in Hillsborough County, prompting expanded mosquito-control efforts across the Tampa area.
With these locally acquired dengue cases reported in the Tampa Bay area, we encourage Florida residents to learn more about the symptoms, warning signs, and steps they can take to reduce their risk of contracting dengue fever. Keep reading as we share everything you need to know about dengue fever in Florida and how you can protect you and your loved ones.
What Is Dengue Fever?
If you aren’t familiar with dengue fever, it is a painful viral illness that is spread through the bite of an infected mosquito carrying the virus. Four different types of viruses can cause dengue, but you cannot catch it directly from another person with the illness. The virus spreads through bites from Aedes mosquitoes, and Florida’s warm, humid climate creates favorable conditions for mosquitoes. About 1 in 20 people develop severe dengue, which is a medical emergency that needs immediate attention.
Dengue in Tampa and Hillsborough County
Locals in Florida may have heard news reports about an increase in dengue fever cases in Tampa, particularly in Hillsborough County. These cases are reported as “locally acquired,” meaning the infected individual caught the virus from a mosquito bite within Florida, rather than while traveling abroad.
Hillsborough County has responded by expanding mosquito-control operations throughout Tampa. In September 2026, aerial treatments were conducted or planned in areas including Seminole Heights, Ybor City, West Tampa, Palma Ceia, East Tampa, and other parts of central Tampa. County officials have said mosquito traps in multiple neighborhoods have shown dengue virus activity, prompting increased treatment by air and ground.
Symptoms of Dengue Fever
While many people who contract dengue fever have no symptoms, common symptoms include fever, headache, pain behind the eyes, muscle and joint pain, nausea, and rash. Symptoms often appear four to ten days after a bite from an infected mosquito and can be confused with the flu. In milder cases, people recover from dengue fever in one to two weeks, but you may feel tired for a few weeks following the virus. However, for some people, symptoms get worse and can even be life-threatening.
When Dengue Can Become Serious
In severe cases of dengue fever, you may notice further symptoms one to two days after the fever goes away. Extreme stomach pain, vomiting or vomiting blood, bleeding from your nose or gums, and severe tiredness are signs of severe dengue. If you do notice any of these symptoms, we recommend seeking medical attention immediately, as this virus can cause damage to your blood vessels and cause them to leak, potentially leading to shock, internal bleeding, organ failure, and, in worst-case situations, death.
How Dengue Is Diagnosed and Treated
Evaluation for dengue fever is based on your current symptoms, mosquito exposure, travel history, and blood testing. Based on the findings from this initial consultation and evaluation, you may be offered supportive treatment, hydration, and monitoring. With the recent outbreaks and locally acquired cases in Florida, physicians in Tampa should now consider dengue even in patients without recent international travel.
There is no specific antiviral medication for dengue. Treatment generally focuses on rest, hydration, monitoring, and symptom management. The CDC recommends acetaminophen (Tylenol) for fever and pain and advises people with suspected dengue to avoid aspirin and NSAIDs such as ibuprofen because they can increase the risk of bleeding.
Preventing Dengue in Tampa
For individuals living in Tampa and Florida, we recommend taking extra preventive measures now to protect yourself from mosquito bites. When spending time outside, use mosquito repellent and protective clothing. At home, eliminate standing water that could attract mosquitoes, and maintain screens, pools, gutters, and outdoor areas for extra protection. Take extra precautions during Tampa’s warm, rainy months, when mosquito activity rises and the risk of being bitten by an infected mosquito increases.
When to See an Infectious Disease Specialist
Severe dengue is a medical emergency. If you develop severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, bleeding, extreme weakness, or other warning signs, seek immediate medical attention rather than waiting for a routine appointment.
For persistent symptoms, an uncertain diagnosis, concerns about testing, or follow-up after an initial medical evaluation, consultation with an infectious disease specialist may be appropriate.
FAQs
- Is dengue currently found in Tampa? Yes. Locally acquired dengue cases have been reported in Hillsborough County in 2026, meaning some people have contracted dengue from infected mosquitoes in the local area rather than during international travel.
- Can you get dengue without traveling outside Florida? Yes. Although dengue is more common in tropical and subtropical regions, Florida has reported locally acquired dengue cases. This means you can contract dengue from an infected mosquito without traveling outside the state.
- What are the first symptoms of dengue? The initial symptoms of dengue fever often include fever, headaches, pain behind your eyes, muscle and joint pain, nausea, and a rash.
- Is dengue contagious? You cannot catch dengue fever directly from another person. It spreads through bites from Aedes mosquitoes.
- When should I see a doctor for possible dengue? If you notice symptoms of severe dengue fever, such as stomach pain, bleeding from the nose or gums, vomiting or vomiting blood, and severe tiredness, seek immediate medical attention.
- Are there dengue mosquitoes in Tampa, Florida? Yes. The Aedes mosquitoes that can spread dengue are found in Florida, including the Tampa Bay area. Dengue is transmitted when a mosquito bites an infected person and later bites another person. Florida has reported locally acquired dengue cases, meaning people can contract the virus without traveling outside the state. Tampa residents can reduce their risk by using mosquito repellent, wearing protective clothing, and eliminating standing water around their homes.
Concerned About Dengue Fever in Tampa?
If you’re experiencing symptoms of dengue fever or have concerns about a possible infection, the physicians at Infectious Disease Associates of Tampa Bay can help evaluate your symptoms, recommend appropriate testing, and determine the next steps in your care. Contact us today to book an appointment with our providers or to discuss any questions you have about dengue fever in Tampa.
