The alliance between Hillsborough County and USF has been instrumental in advancing mosquito control strategies.
This year marks the 75th anniversary of Hillsborough County's Mosquito Management Services, a milestone that reflects decades of dedication to public health and environmental stewardship. Since its inception in 1949, the program has evolved from basic mosquito control methods to a science-driven operation, thanks to a longstanding partnership with the University of South Florida (USF).
To commemorate those 75 years of community partnerships, Mosquito Management is opening its doors to help residents learn how the program has evolved over the decades and where it's headed. From 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Saturday, May 10, 2025, the family fun event will be held at 6527 Eureka Springs Rd., Tampa, FL 33610. There will be guided tours of the facility, interactive displays and exhibits, and the opportunity to view and take photos inside a Mosquito Management helicopter.
A Collaborative Approach to Public Health
The alliance between Hillsborough County and USF has been instrumental in advancing mosquito control strategies. USF researchers have contributed to the County's ability to monitor and manage mosquito populations effectively.
One such collaboration involves USF's College of Public Health developing an innovative approach of using drones equipped with artificial intelligence to identify mosquito breeding sites, particularly in areas with discarded tires. Discarded tires are a common breeding ground for mosquitoes carrying diseases like Zika and dengue fever virus.
Engaging the Community through Citizen Science
USF has also led initiatives that allow residents to get involved in mosquito surveillance. Researchers launched a social media campaign encouraging residents to upload images of mosquitoes to platforms like iNaturalist and Mosquito Alert. This approach uses AI to assist in identifying disease-carrying species and mapping their habitat, which provides valuable data for mosquito control efforts. The team is also developing and testing AI-enabled smart traps for mosquitoes, in collaboration with Hillsborough County.
Continued Mosquito Management Strategies
As the County celebrates 75 years of mosquito control efforts, the collaboration with USF and other agencies continues to drive innovation in mosquito management. As a team, they are exploring new technologies and strategies to protect public health and to ensure that the County remains at the forefront of mosquito control efforts for years to come.
For more information on Hillsborough County's Mosquito Management Services and ongoing initiatives, visit HCFL.gov/Mosquito.