Influence and Impact of Mosquito-borne Diseases on the History of Florida, USA

Abstract

Mosquito-borne disease has had a significant impact on the history of Florida. Malaria, yellow fever, and dengue are the three most important diseases of humans in the history of the state. Malaria was a leading cause of death among Floridians until the mid 20th Century. Yellow fever was a danger until the last outbreak in 1905. Dengue continues to be a problem in Florida. Other mosquito-borne viruses continue to impact the state in modern times. Still others are potential threats although not present yet. Politics, economics, public perception, and the mass media all influence the control of mosquitoes.