San Diego City Wire

San Diego County is investigating a second case of locally acquired dengue fever. This recent case, involving a resident from Vista, is not connected to the earlier case reported in Escondido this month. The individual affected had not traveled to regions where dengue is prevalent.

Dr. Seema Shah, interim deputy public health officer for the county, stated, "As always, the County is closely monitoring these recent cases of locally acquired dengue and quickly responding to prevent the spread of illness." She added that while the risk remains low, they are observing an increase in cases within California and across the United States.

To prevent further spread, County Vector Control will be treating areas around 60 homes in Vista until October 29. Dengue fever, typically found in tropical regions, has seen minimal local transmission since invasive Aedes mosquitoes were detected in San Diego County in 2014. Only one other local case has been reported prior to this year.

The disease spreads through mosquito bites from infected individuals. So far in 2024, San Diego County has recorded 53 travel-related dengue cases.

Symptoms of dengue include fever, chills, pain (eye pain, muscle pain), nausea, vomiting, and rash. While most recover within a week without specific medication available for treatment, severe cases may require hospitalization.

Efforts to control mosquito populations include using AquaDuet pesticide with ultra-low-volume backpack sprayers and trucks. The product poses low risk to humans and pets and dissipates quickly. Residents can find more information on treatment boundaries on Vector Control's website or visit San Diego County’s “Fight the Bite” site for general mosquito prevention tips.

County public health staff will be present in Vista on October 26 and October 28 to address concerns and provide additional information about dengue.