Q: How do you monitor mosquito populations?

A: We use a comprehensive, science-based surveillance program to monitor mosquito populations. We deploy a network of strategically placed adult mosquito traps throughout the county to capture and identify mosquito species and assess population density. In addition, our team regularly inspects known and potential larval breeding sites, such as ditches, containers, and flood-prone areas, to detect early mosquito development.

Data collected from surveillance is analyzed daily and used to guide our targeted treatment strategies, helping us determine when, where, and what type of control measures are most effective. This proactive approach ensures responsible pesticide use, minimizes environmental impact, and enhances our ability to protect public health from mosquito-borne diseases.

Q: How do you monitor mosquito-borne disease?

A: We monitor mosquito-borne diseases by using sentinel chicken flocks strategically placed across the county as an early-warning system. These chickens are regularly tested for antibodies to viruses like West Nile virus (WNV), St. Louis encephalitis (SLE), and Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE). Because chickens are highly sensitive to mosquito-transmitted viruses — but don’t become sick — their blood tests can reveal the presence of these diseases in the local mosquito population before they pose a greater threat to humans or animals. This proactive approach allows us to detect emerging risks early and take targeted, science-based control measures to protect public health.