Seminole County leaders say measures used to control mosquito population are working

SEMINOLE COUNTY, Fla. — Seminole County leaders said what they have been doing to eliminate the mosquito population seems to be working.

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Many areas have been struggling to get rid of the pests after Hurricane Ian left behind tons of standing water.

Photos: Seminole County leaders say measures used to control mosquito population are working

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Seminole County leaders say measures used to control mosquito population are working

County leaders have sprayed more than 45,000 acres of land on the east side of Seminole County.

Read: Over $1 billion in federal funding put towards Hurricane Ian recovery

They also said almost four times the normal amount of mosquitoes were found in traps after the storm hit.

“Our program works 365 days of the year, we’ve never really stopped doing these things,” said Sharon Wetzel, watershed management division manager. “But we’re just doing a lot more right now. And it’ll all depend on when these floodwaters recede. And we can get it back under control.”

Watch: Hurricane Ian: Closure of Seminole County Courthouse in Sanford extended

Along with spraying for mosquitos, county workers are also testing chickens across the county to make sure the mosquitos aren’t carrying any diseases like bird flu.

Read: Florida sees rise in flesh-eating bacteria amid Ian concerns

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