09/24/2026
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LOCAL STATE OF EMERGENCY: Pasco County has declared a Local State of Emergency in response to dengue fever, a mosquito-borne viral infection impacting the community and surrounding Tampa Bay region.
The emergency declaration allows the County Administrator and Emergency Management Director to waive certain routine procedures and take necessary action to protect the health, safety and welfare of Pasco County residents.
The Local State of Emergency will remain in effect for seven days unless rescinded earlier by the County Administrator if it is determined that the declaration is no longer necessary.
Pasco County is providing support, as needed, to the Pasco County Mosquito Control District and the Florida Department of Health in Pasco County (DOH-Pasco) as officials work to address the mosquito-borne illness.
The declaration comes amid a significant increase in dengue fever cases throughout the Tampa Bay region. Pasco County health officials previously confirmed a human case of dengue in August and have been coordinating surveillance and prevention efforts with mosquito control officials.
RESIDENTS URGED TO TAKE PRECAUTIONS
Health officials are encouraging residents to follow the Florida Department of Health’s “Drain and Cover” recommendations to reduce mosquito populations and protect themselves from mosquito bites.
Residents are encouraged to:
* DRAIN: Eliminate standing water around homes and businesses, including flowerpots, buckets, birdbaths, gutters, pool covers and other containers that collect rainwater.
* COVER: Wear long sleeves and pants when practical and use EPA-registered mosquito repellent according to label instructions.
* PROTECT YOUR HOME: Make sure windows, doors, porches and patios have properly functioning screens to prevent mosquitoes from entering.
Dengue fever is transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito. Symptoms can include fever, severe headaches, pain behind the eyes, muscle and joint pain, nausea and vomiting. Severe cases can lead to potentially life-threatening complications.
Residents experiencing symptoms consistent with dengue fever should contact their healthcare provider.
County officials are encouraging the public to remain vigilant and take preventive measures as local and state agencies continue their response.
