Florida Mosquito Control Professionals Bring High-Tech Science and Tools to the Florida Capitol

~Innovations in Action: Combating Mosquito-Borne Diseases with Science and Technology~

TALLAHASSEE, Fla., March 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Members of the Florida Mosquito Control Association (FMCA) visited lawmakers today and shared the cutting-edge technology and scientific innovations these highly skilled professionals deploy to control "the world's deadliest animal" and keep our state's residents and visitors safe.

"The success of these dedicated professionals is evident by the ability of our businesses and communities to safely function and thrive," said Senator Jim Boyd, (R-Bradenton). "The work they do every day to protect us keeps our state the best in the nation to live, work and visit."

For the past three years, Sen. Boyd has sponsored the FMCA Day at the Capitol, providing FMCA members with an opportunity to share their work and educate elected leaders about their public safety efforts in local communities.

More than 80 species of mosquitoes in Florida were on display. Many of them can carry diseases that are harmful or even deadly for humans and animals, such as dengue virus, which affects hundreds of millions of people worldwide each year.  

In 2024, the state of Florida experienced 1,010 travel-related and 91 local cases of dengue virus, which continues to spread in various regions of the state. People can become infected with dengue virus through the bite of certain species of mosquitoes which are present in Florida. People infected can become sick with mild or severe symptoms, including a very high fever, muscle or joint pains, and nausea.

A diverse range of advanced tools and technologies were on display at the Capitol, displayed by highly trained mosquito control professionals from across Florida's 67 counties.

"Preparing for mosquitoes is similar to what Floridians do each hurricane season," said Dr. Jorge Rey, FMCA President and professor at the University of Florida's Medical Entomology Laboratory. "Smart, precautionary measures can help reduce mosquitoes around your home and mitigate public health risks. As scientists we continue to look for cutting edge technology and scientific innovations to combat these deadly animals."

Among them was the high-tech Skydio drone, a powerful tool used to identify mosquito breeding grounds from above. Drones, like the one on display, provides the ability to visually inspect and perform control measures in otherwise difficult to reach areas.

With some mosquitoes resistant to traditional pesticides, innovative strategies make Florida an international leader in cutting edge techniques to control mosquitoes. 

Among those is the "Sterile Insect Technique" which uses x-rays to sterilize male mosquitos which are released to mate with females with resulting eggs that are not viable.

And the Florida Keys Mosquito District shared their successful pilot project that safely used Oxitec's targeted biological pest control technology to combat the disease transmitting Aedes aegypti mosquito.

In addition, an eight-foot mosquito, an accurate replica of the deadly Aedes aegypti, named "Mojito the Mosquito" drew attention to the high-tech tools on display.

"We appreciate the opportunity to thank all members of the Florida Legislature for their support," said Dr. Rey. "While there are 15 independent mosquito control districts as well as municipal and county programs, we operate as one team – sharing best practices to keep the state safe."

Residents and visitors are always encouraged to take the necessary precautions when outdoors. The American Mosquito Control Association has a summary of those small measures, calling them the three D's of protection.

• Drain – Following a rain or storm, each household and property becomes a resort for mosquitoes looking for a place to lay her eggs. Mosquitoes only need a teaspoon of water to develop, so emptying even small accumulations of water outside can make a difference.
• Dress – Wear long sleeves and long pants that are light-colored and loose-fitting. These clothing choices are a deterrent to mosquitoes.
• Defend – Mosquito repellents containing DEET, Picaridin and IR3535 are powerful shields against mosquitoes. If a more natural product is preferred, repellents containing Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus are great options.

For more information visit FMCA by clicking here.

Contact: Alia Faraj-Johnson, 850-212-8317

SOURCE Florida Mosquito Control Association