An environmental health issue or concern in our local community.

 

Choose an environmental health issue or concern in our local community. Local communities can include specific towns/cities, Monroe County, or Florida. Provide an overview of the hazard, including its effect on people, the interventions that could or should take place, and the role that nurses should play in reducing or eliminating this hazard.

This year in Monroe County there were two Monroe County residents that contracted Dengue fever, this was confirmed by the Monroe County health officials. (Cooper 2024). Dengue fever is contracted from mosquitoes, it most commonly is found in tropical and subtropical areas. Mild dengue fever symptoms include flu like symptoms and a high fever. The more severe version of dengue fever is known as dengue hemorrhagic fever, this causes heavy bleeding and a rapid drop in blood pressure, this can cause shock or death to occur. (Normandin 2021). The best way to reduce this disease is to avoid getting bitten by mosquitos and help reduce the mosquito population. Nurses can have a large role with preventing this disease by educating the public, they can explain how serious this disease is, what the signs and symptoms are and the importance implementing prevention interventions. Some examples of prevention interventions can include using mosquito repellent, wearing long-sleeved shirts and wearing pants that cover your ankles. (Normandin 2021).

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Choose an environmental health issue or concern in our local community. Local communities can include specific towns/cities, Monroe County, or Florida. Provide an overview of the hazard, including its effect on people, the interventions that could or should take place, and the role that nurses should play in reducing or eliminating this hazard.

 

This year in Monroe County there were two Monroe County residents that contracted Dengue fever, this was confirmed by the Monroe County health officials. (Cooper 2024). Dengue fever is contracted from mosquitoes, it most commonly is found in tropical and subtropical areas. Mild dengue fever symptoms include flu like symptoms and a high fever. The more severe version of dengue fever is known as dengue hemorrhagic fever, this causes heavy bleeding and a rapid drop in blood pressure, this can cause shock or death to occur. (Normandin 2021). The best way to reduce this disease is to avoid getting bitten by mosquitos and help reduce the mosquito population. Nurses can have a large role with preventing this disease by educating the public, they can explain how serious this disease is, what the signs and symptoms are and the importance implementing prevention interventions. Some examples of prevention interventions can include using mosquito repellent, wearing long-sleeved shirts and wearing pants that cover your ankles. (Normandin 2021).

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Dengue Fever in Monroe County, Florida

Overview of the Hazard

Dengue fever, a mosquito-borne viral illness, has become a significant public health concern in Monroe County, Florida. The recent cases reported in the county highlight the potential for this disease to spread within the community. Dengue fever is transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, which are prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions. While most cases result in mild symptoms, a more severe form, dengue hemorrhagic fever, can lead to life-threatening complications.

Effects on People

Dengue fever can have a significant impact on individuals and communities. Symptoms often include high fever, severe headache, muscle and joint pain, nausea, vomiting, and rash. In severe cases, dengue hemorrhagic fever can cause internal bleeding, low blood pressure, and shock. These complications can be fatal if not treated promptly.

Interventions

To reduce the prevalence of dengue fever in Monroe County, a multifaceted approach is necessary:

  • Mosquito Control:
    • Habitat Reduction: Eliminate stagnant water sources where mosquitoes breed, such as old tires, flowerpots, and clogged gutters.
    • Larvicides: Apply larvicides to standing water to kill mosquito larvae.
    • Adulticides: Use insecticides to kill adult mosquitoes.
  • Personal Protection:
    • Repellents: Use insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or other effective ingredients.
    • Clothing: Wear long-sleeved shirts, pants, and socks to minimize skin exposure.
    • Nets: Use mosquito nets, especially during sleep.
  • Public Awareness:
    • Education Campaigns: Inform the community about the risks of dengue fever, prevention measures, and the importance of seeking medical attention if symptoms develop.
    • Early Detection: Encourage early reporting of dengue fever cases to facilitate timely control measures.

Role of Nurses

Nurses play a crucial role in addressing the dengue fever threat in Monroe County:

  • Community Education: Nurses can conduct educational programs to raise awareness about dengue fever, its symptoms, and prevention strategies.
  • Disease Surveillance: Nurses can assist in monitoring dengue fever cases and identifying outbreaks.
  • Patient Care: Nurses can provide care for individuals with dengue fever, ensuring proper diagnosis, treatment, and management of complications.
  • Advocacy: Nurses can advocate for policies and programs that support mosquito control and prevention efforts.
  • Research: Nurses can participate in research studies to better understand dengue fever transmission, prevention, and treatment.

By implementing these interventions and leveraging the expertise of nurses, Monroe County can effectively mitigate the risk of dengue fever and protect the health of its residents.

 

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