West Nile Virus Cases Persist in Florida, Health Officials Report

Florida Health officials continue to monitor mosquito-borne illnesses in Florida. In the most recent report posted by FloridaHealth.gov, several cases of West Nile virus (WNV) were reported in the state. According to the latest Arbovirus Surveillance Report covering November 10-16, 2024, two human cases of WNV were confirmed in Hillsborough and Citrus counties. An alpaca in Pasco County also tested positive for the virus.

Sentinel chickens, which are used to monitor mosquito-borne virus activity, tested positive for WNV antibodies in 13 counties, including heavily populated areas such as Hillsborough, Pinellas, and Volusia. This adds to the growing number of cases this year, which includes 13 human infections, 808 positive sentinel chickens, and several infected animals, such as horses, ducks, and even a flamingo.

While West Nile virus remains a key concern, other mosquito-borne illnesses have also been on the radar. Dengue virus activity was notable last week, with 29 travel-associated cases reported among individuals returning from international destinations. This brings Florida's 2024 total for travel-associated dengue cases to 786. However, no new locally acquired dengue cases were reported last week, leaving the annual total at 66 across 10 counties.

Despite the absence of new cases for diseases like St. Louis encephalitis (SLEV), Eastern equine encephalitis (EEEV), and chikungunya, health officials stress the importance of vigilance. Mosquito-borne illness advisories and alerts remain in effect in numerous counties, including Hillsborough, Miami-Dade, and Palm Beach.

Residents are encouraged to take proactive steps to protect themselves from mosquito bites. The Florida Department of Health advises using insect repellents, wearing long sleeves and pants, and eliminating standing water to reduce mosquito breeding.

Travelers are also urged to be cautious, as several regions, including parts of the Americas, Africa, and Asia, are experiencing outbreaks of mosquito-borne diseases like dengue and yellow fever.

For ongoing updates and prevention tips, officials recommend visiting FloridaHealth.gov.

Health experts remind the public that while these viruses can often be prevented with simple precautions, the consequences of infection can be severe, particularly for vulnerable populations. Residents are urged to stay informed and take protective measures to safeguard their health.​​