Miami-Dade County shares seasonal mosquito control tips

As spring brings warmer temperatures and more frequent rainfall, mosquito activity in Miami-Dade County may become more noticeable.  While mosquitoes are a routine part of the outdoor environment in South Florida, there are several practical steps residents can take to help manage their presence around homes and neighborhoods.

"Seasonal changes like warmer weather and rain create conditions where mosquitoes are more active," says Department of Solid Waste Management Director Aneisha Daniel, PhD. "Residents can help by checking their properties for standing water and using an EPA-registered mosquito repellent when spending time outdoors."

According to Mosquito Control Division Chief Dr. John-Paul Mutebi, certain mosquito species, including Aedes aegypti, tend to develop in small amounts of standing water commonly found in residential areas. Regularly removing standing water can help limit mosquito breeding.

Miami-Dade County manages mosquito activity through an ongoing surveillance program. A network of more than 300 mosquito traps is used to monitor mosquito activity and better understand where and when mosquitoes are most active. This information helps guide routine control efforts across the County. 
Residents seeking assistance with mosquito concerns can contact the County's 311 Contact Center, submit a request online at miamidade.gov/311direct, or use the MDC Solid Waste mobile app available for Android and iPhone. A trained inspector is typically available within two business days, and this service is provided at no additional cost.

Tips to help reduce mosquito activity around your home:

•    Periodically add a larvicide containing Bti in granular form to bromeliads, and dunk form to fountains or decorative ponds
•    Use mosquito repellent with active ingredients such as DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR-3535 when outside
•    Fill low spots in lawns and tree holes with sand where water may collect
•    Wear long sleeves and pants when spending extended time outside
•    Refresh the water in outdoor pet dishes and birdbaths regularly
•    Remove or store items than can collect water, such containers, tires, or toys
•    Drain rain or irrigation water from flowerpot saucers, buckets, and similar items 
•    Maintain windows window and door screens
•    Keep gutters clear to prevent water buildup 
•    Store or secure tarps to avoid collecting water

For more information about mosquito control services and additional resources, please visit miamidade.gov/mosquito.