Hillsborough County Mosquito Management Services, in partnership with the Manatee County Mosquito Control District, launched an expanded aerial mosquito treatment on the night of Aug. 26. The operation, which runs until 6 a.m. on Aug. 27, adds the neighborhoods of Seminole Heights and Tampa Heights to the previously announced zones of East Tampa, Brandon and Seffner.
Details of the treatment
Helicopters flying at an altitude of roughly 150 feet will dispense a blend of Dibrom and Fyfanone insecticides. The application rate is set at one ounce per acre, a dosage designed to target adult mosquitoes while minimizing exposure to residents and the environment.
Coverage corridors
The expanded treatment focuses on two primary corridors:
- Seminole Heights and Tampa Heights: Bordered by Busch Boulevard to the north, the I‑4/I‑275 interchange to the south, North 29th Street to the east, and North Armenia Avenue to the west.
- East Tampa and Brandon: Bounded by Bessie Dix Road to the north, Bloomingdale Road to the south, Gallagher Road to the east, and U.S. 41 to the west.
These corridors were selected because they have reported higher adult mosquito activity in recent weeks, prompting the county to act swiftly to protect public health and outdoor recreation.
Backup dates and public safety
If weather conditions or operational challenges disrupt the scheduled spray, county officials have identified backup treatment windows on Thursday, Aug. 27, and Friday, Aug. 28. Residents are encouraged to keep windows and doors closed during the spray window and to follow any additional guidance posted by the county health department.
The mosquito management program is part of a broader effort by Hillsborough County to reduce vector‑borne diseases, such as West Nile virus and Zika, which can pose risks to families, especially children and seniors. By targeting adult mosquitoes before they reproduce, the county aims to lower the overall mosquito population throughout the summer.
Community response
Local homeowners and neighborhood associations have expressed support for the proactive approach, noting that the aerial treatment helps maintain safe outdoor spaces for family gatherings, evening walks, and community events. The county continues to monitor mosquito activity through traps and public reports, adjusting treatment plans as needed.
For further information, residents can visit the Hillsborough County Mosquito Management Services website or contact the county’s public health hotline.
Original reporting: Tampa Free Press — read the source article.
