Clearwater, Fla. – On Thursday, Pinellas County Mosquito Control, in partnership with Lee County Mosquito Control, will conduct a coordinated aerial treatment aimed at reducing mosquito larvae that carry dengue fever. The operation will see low‑flying helicopters over designated zones in Clearwater and St. Petersburg, beginning with mapping flights between 8 a.m. and 9 a.m., followed by the application of a fine mist from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
How the treatment works
The crews will disperse a mist containing Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (Bti), a naturally occurring soil bacterium that specifically targets mosquito larvae in standing water. Bti is the same active ingredient found in commercial mosquito dunks and bits used by homeowners across the nation. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Bti poses no health risk to people, pets, or the environment, and residents do not need to take any special precautions during or after the spray.
Why the timing matters
Dengue cases in Pinellas County have risen sharply this summer, prompting health officials to act quickly. By flying at low altitude, the helicopters allow the mist to settle directly into the small pockets of standing water where larvae develop, increasing the effectiveness of the treatment. County officials emphasized that the low‑altitude flight paths will produce a louder engine noise than typical aerial applications, but the noise is temporary and part of the effort to ensure thorough coverage.
What residents need to know
Residents can view detailed maps of the treatment zones on the Pinellas County website at pinellas.gov/mosquito-control-treatments. Those who wish to receive neighborhood spray alerts can sign up at pinellas.gov/Alert-Pinellas. Additional information about the county’s dengue prevention program is available at pinellas.gov/Dengue.
The county’s proactive approach reflects a broader commitment to protecting public health while respecting the community’s quality of life. By employing a proven, environmentally safe larvicide and coordinating with neighboring Lee County, Pinellas officials aim to reduce the mosquito population and curb the spread of dengue fever before the season peaks.
Community response
Local homeowners and business owners have expressed support for the initiative, noting that the natural larvicide poses no risk and that the swift action is a responsible response to a growing health concern. County officials reiterated that the treatment is part of an ongoing, science‑based strategy to keep the region safe from mosquito‑borne illnesses.
For any questions or concerns about the aerial spray, residents are encouraged to contact Pinellas County Mosquito Control directly through the county’s website or by calling the public information line.
Original reporting: Tampa Free Press — read the source article.
