Escambia Health Officials Warn of Mosquito-Borne Illness Risk After Hurricane Isaias

The Florida Department of Health in Escambia County is reminding residents and visitors to take precautions against mosquito-borne diseases following Hurricane Isaias, which can create conditions favoring mosquito breeding and increase exposure risk.

Dengue fever, West Nile virus, Eastern equine encephalitis, St. Louis encephalitis, malaria, chikungunya, and other insect-borne illnesses remain under statewide surveillance. Health officials urge the community to protect themselves by using insect repellent, wearing long sleeves and pants when possible, and eliminating standing water around homes where mosquitoes breed.

The department also encourages residents to report dead birds to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, as birds can be early indicators of West Nile virus and other disease activity. For additional mosquito prevention guidance, residents can visit the Department's mosquito prevention webpage or contact the Escambia County Health Department at 850-595-6500, option 7.