**Florida Woman Shares Harrowing Experience with Dengue Fever Amid Local Outbreak**
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A woman from Lakeland, Florida, has come forward to recount her frightening battle with dengue fever, which she attributes to a mosquito bite received in her own backyard. Requinn Nicolette’s experience comes at a time when Florida is facing a concerning surge in dengue cases, a disease that has not seen local transmission in the state for over 15 years.
Speaking to local news station Fox 13, Nicolette described her symptoms as excruciating, likening the pain to feeling as though her bones were breaking. The nickname ‘breakbone fever’ aptly reflects the relentless pain associated with dengue, which can manifest in severe muscle and joint discomfort. “The pain was probably the worst symptom for me,” she remarked.
Nicolette’s ordeal spanned a staggering four months, during which she dealt with a multitude of distressing symptoms including persistent vomiting, a rash, and severe headaches. Additionally, her condition led to internal leaking of veins and blood vessels, resulting in alarming bruising across her body. Her struggle culminated in a four-day hospital stay as her body fought against the virus.
In light of her experience, the aspiring country singer has chosen to share her story as a cautionary tale to encourage others to take preventive measures against mosquito bites. “I’m a grown adult and I can’t imagine a child experiencing what I experienced,” she added, emphasising the importance of awareness, particularly in areas where dengue is prevalent.
The current situation in Florida is alarming, with 252 locally acquired cases of dengue reported this year, according to the latest data from Florida Health. This marks a notable increase in locally transmitted cases, with 62 reported in the week ending on September 26. The outbreak has tragically claimed the life of an 80-year-old woman from Tampa, highlighting the serious consequences of the disease.
Dengue fever is transmitted by the bite of infected Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes. While many cases in the United States usually stem from international travel, the emergence of local transmission in Florida indicates a shift in the spread of this tropical illness. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has noted that around 25% of individuals bitten by an infected mosquito will develop symptoms, which can range in severity.
Symptoms of dengue include fever, nausea, vomiting, rashes, and various types of bodily pains. Essential treatment generally consists of rest, hydration, and acetaminophen for pain relief. However, the CDC emphasises that the best course of action is prevention, especially for those residing in at-risk regions.
To protect against dengue, the CDC advises residents to wear long sleeves and trousers and to apply insect repellents containing DEET or Picaridin. It is worth noting that repellents with lemon eucalyptus or para-menthane-diol are not recommended for children under three years of age.
With increased awareness and prevention methods, the hope is that incidents like Nicolette’s can be significantly reduced in the future. Her story serves as a powerful reminder of the potential risks presented by mosquito-borne diseases, encouraging residents to take proactive steps to safeguard their health against these insects.
As the community grapples with this recent outbreak, it becomes ever more crucial for individuals to stay informed and vigilant. The alarming rise in dengue cases in Florida presents not only a public health challenge but also underscores the importance of personal preventative measures in protecting oneself against mosquito-borne illnesses.