Hillsborough County has 134 dengue fever cases

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, Fla. — The number of dengue fever cases in Hillsborough County continues to rise.

According to the state health department, there are now 134 reported cases of the virus in the county.

There are only 152 cases in the entire state.

On Friday, the county health department confirmed a dengue fever-related death but released few details.

“To respect the privacy of the family during this difficult time, the Department will not be providing further identifying information,” it said in a statement to Spectrum News.

Dengue fever happens when someone is bitten by an infected mosquito.

Symptoms of dengue fever include severe headaches, muscle and joint pain nausea and vomiting.

Health officials say you should empty any standing water around your homes and use bug spray and wear long sleeves when outdoors.

Hillsborough County has been working to keep the mosquito population under control by spraying insecticide from trucks and helicopters.

You may see choppers flying lower than usual while they continue their efforts.