3rd case of locally transmitted dengue fever confirmed in Florida

Florida health officials have announced the third case of locally transmitted dengue fever in the state this year.

The tropical disease, which is primarily spread through bites from Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, kills over 10,000 people every year – but mainly in Asia and South America.

Also known as breakbone fever, people who suffer from dengue tend to experience extreme joint pain alongside a rash, fever and headaches.

The Florida Department of Health said the third case was confirmed in Miami-Dade County on Friday.

The first case was recorded in March, while the second came at the beginning of August.

Officials said they do not believe the cases to be linked, but a mosquito-borne disease alert was issued on Friday.

To read more about dengue fever in Florida, click here.