SEMINOLE, Fla. — Seminole County mosquito control officials are keeping a close watch for potential threats after locally acquired dengue cases were confirmed in neighboring Orange County.
While Seminole County is largely maintaining its existing mosquito control efforts, officials say the cases next door are another reason to remain vigilant and try to get ahead of any potential spread.
Seminole County Mosquito Control Program Manager Theressa Jones said her division has identified 32 mosquito species in the county and is closely monitoring conditions following three locally acquired cases of dengue in Orange County.
“It makes us a little more diligent than what we already are,” Jones said.
Seminole County Mosquito Control has responded to more than 150 calls for service from the community. Crews have also treated more than 15,000 acres, including efforts to kill mosquitoes before they develop into biting adults.
This month’s wet weather is also keeping crews busy.
“This September has been a little bit more in the rain,” Jones said. “So, we are hopping a little more this year than we did last year.”
The county also uses sentinel chickens as an early detection system for mosquito-borne illnesses. Blood samples from the chickens can help officials determine whether certain viruses are circulating in the area.
Mosquito control is also using new artificial intelligence technology to quickly identify mosquito species and determine where they are being found.
Officials say mosquito control programs communicate across county lines to monitor potential threats and identify changes that could require a response.
Residents can help reduce mosquito populations around their homes by eliminating standing water where mosquitoes can breed and requesting mosquito service when needed.
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