Florida has reported its first confirmed dengue fever death of 2026. The Florida Department of Health identified Gay Small, a resident of Hillsborough County, as the victim. She passed away on September 4 from complications associated with a dengue infection, which led to septic shock and multi-organ failure. This occurred after she was bitten by a mosquito near her home.
Small’s daughter, Anna Small, expressed frustration over the sudden illness of her mother, who was in good health and maintained a healthy lifestyle. She reported to WFLA Channel 8 that her mother initially contracted dengue years ago while traveling abroad, unknowingly carrying the virus since then.
While hospitalized, Gay Small showed signs of the disease such as weakness, red hands, and trembling sounds in her voice, according to WFLA. She required intensive care, highlighting the seriousness of her condition.
“She met the wrong mosquito, and that’s it,” Anna Small remarked.
Dengue fever spreads through mosquito bites, leading to symptoms like fever, severe aches, nausea, and rash. It is commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions but has also surfaced in parts of the U.S. including Florida, California, and Texas. The Florida Department of Health has intensified efforts to manage the increasing number of locally acquired cases by enhancing surveillance and spraying activities.
University of South Florida public health instructor Kristi Miley noted that there had not been a recorded dengue death in the Tampa Bay area for almost a century. Despite this, Florida has faced an increase in locally acquired infections since July, with Hillsborough County being a primary location for these cases.
Alissa Berro, Pinellas County Mosquito Control Director, warned that mosquitoes carrying the virus can travel short distances, amplifying the risk of the virus spreading as individuals move about the Tampa Bay area.
The rise in local cases has prompted authorities to double down on mosquito control efforts. This includes inspecting properties for breeding sites and applying insecticides and larvicides extensively. Testing efforts have so far returned negative results for recent mosquito samples, which is encouraging news.
The Florida Mosquito Control Association advises residents to prevent mosquito breeding by covering or removing standing water around their homes. They suggest following the “three Ds” approach:
- Dress: Wear long sleeves, light colors, and closed-toed shoes when outside.
- Defend: Use repellents containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus.
- Dump: Regularly clear containers of standing water around your property.
While many dengue cases are asymptomatic, symptoms can progress to severe dengue, which is potentially life-threatening. Warning signs like severe stomach pain or difficulty breathing require immediate medical attention.
Teresa Mull contributed to this report. She writes for the Lifestyle team at Fox News Digital.
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