JENSEN BEACH, Fla. (AP) -- Health officials have issued an alert for mosquito-borne illness in a Central Florida community.
The Palm Beach Post reports that seven cases of dengue fever have been confirmed in Martin and St. Lucie counties.
While widespread in the Caribbean, the illness is uncommon in the United States. It is carried by household mosquitoes and can cause fevers, headaches and muscle and joint soreness. Some cases result in a heavy, red skin rash that can look like measles.
The Florida Department of Health has expanded its health alert to the entire Jensen Beach area in Central Florida. Mosquito control crews are working in the affected areas.
Officials advise residents to drain any standing water, cover their skin with clothing or repellent and protect windows and doors with screens.