Dengue has threatened the people of Key West. It is a disease that spreads by the bite of an infected Aedes Aegypti mosquito that causes serious illness, including a fever of 104 to 105 degrees, headache, weariness, muscle pain and rashes. Dengue infects 50 million to 100 million people globally and causes 25,000 deaths.

On Tuesday, the Federal officials warned the people of Florida of a possibility of the spread of dengue in the region. In the areas of Key West, 5% of people are detected with virus that leads to this infectious disease.

Last August, three cases were tested positive for dengue in Key West. Taking a precautionary step this year, samples of 2,500 residents of the region were examined by the Federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Florida Health Department to detect the presence of virus.

Dr. Harold Margolis, chief of the CDC's dengue branch, stated that they fear the spread of disease in the island as if it happens, the epidemic would pass to other southern cities like Miami.

The efforts to curb dengue have been initiated by the concerned authorities. People have been advised to keep changing the stagnant water with fresh water in containers or pot trays, which serve as home for mosquitoes. They should consult a doctor if any of the above symptoms occur. In such cases, they should avoid exertion and drink plenty of liquids.