From Fox News · Teresa Mull · · 1m 10s
First Dengue Death in Florida
Florida records first dengue death of 2026 as outbreak grows.
In brief
Florida records first dengue death of 2026 as outbreak grows. Florida's Gay Small died from dengue complications after being bitten by a mosquito, marking the state's first confirmed death of 2026. Originally reported by Fox News.
First Dengue Death in Florida
Florida recorded its first confirmed dengue fever death of 2026 earlier this month.
Gay Small Died Sept 4
Gay Small of Hillsborough County died Sept 4, her 80th birthday, from complications of a dengue infection.
Mother's Daughter Speaks
Small's daughter Anna Small said, 'Cheated. Just, you know, it’s so unfair because she was in good health, and she worked hard to stay healthy'.
“Cheated. Just, you know, it’s so unfair because she was in good health, and she worked hard to stay healthy”
Dengue Virus Spreads
Dengue is a mosquito-borne viral illness that can cause fever, severe aches, nausea and rash.
Dengue Outbreak in Florida
Florida has been experiencing an unprecedented outbreak of locally caught dengue cases since July.
Hillsborough County Epicenter
Hillsborough County has been at the epicenter of the dengue epidemic in the Tampa Bay area.
Mosquito Control Response
Florida mosquito control agencies increased surveillance and spraying as dengue cases climbed.
The big picture
Florida's Gay Small died from dengue complications after being bitten by a mosquito, marking the state's first confirmed death of 2026.
