Florida has recorded its first confirmed dengue fever death of 2026, according to the Florida Department of Health. The death occurred earlier this month in Hillsborough County.
Gay Small, a resident of Hillsborough County, died on September 4 — her 80th birthday — from complications of a dengue infection. The Florida Department of Health confirmed the death as dengue-related.
Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne viral infection transmitted primarily by Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. While most cases are mild, severe dengue can lead to complications, particularly in older adults and those with underlying health conditions.
Local transmission of dengue has been reported in Florida in recent years, with sporadic outbreaks occurring in areas where the mosquito vector is present. Health officials continue to monitor mosquito activity and encourage residents to take precautions against mosquito bites.
