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Mosquitos
Yellow Fever Mosquito (l) , Asian Tiger Mosquito (rt)
Photo: J. Newman, Univ. of FL/IFAS, FL Medical Entomology Lab
Standing Water
Weekly empty any containers holding standing water & flush bromeliads on properties.
Photo: R. Connelly, PhD, Univ. of FL/IFAS, FL Medical Entomology Lab

Mosquitoes are irritating pests and many species transmit human and animal viruses and other diseases. They are attracted by the carbon dioxide we produce when we breathe. Avoiding mosquitoes, using effective repellents and clothing, cleaning up standing water and reporting heavy infestations are the best things you can do in Palm Beach County.  Use care when entering or leaving your home during mosquito season because they often rest in shaded areas or dense vegetation near the doors.


​​If you are seeing heavy mosquito activity in your neighborhood, be sure to report it to Palm Beach County Mosquito Control Division to help them plan their treatment strategies (use the link directly below).


Zika Virus

Zika virus causes human disease and can be transmitted in Florida by the yellow fever mosquito (Aedes aegypti) and the Asian tiger mosquito (Aedes albopictus). The yellow fever mosquito is one of the most common in southern Florida, while the Asian tiger mosquito is more common in northern Florida. Most disease transmitting mosquitoes in Florida are active at dusk through the evening, while both the Zika virus transmitting mosquitoes unfortunately are active during daytime hours. This makes it much more difficult to avoid them.

The most dramatic health problem related to the Zika virus is microcephaly (small brain and head size) in newborns. 2016 research indicates that the virus causes an immune system response that destroys the embryonic brain cells, resulting in the undersized brains and heads. The virus can be sexually transmitted, along with feeding by mosquitoes. It is critical that pregnant women, or those considering becoming pregnant take precautions to avoid the yellow fever and Asian tiger mosquitoes and the virus. Some useful links with additional information are below.

Chikungunya Virus

Chikungunya virus, along with Zika virus and dengue fever is also transmitted in Florida by the yellow fever mosquito (Aedes aegypti) and the Asian tiger mosquito (Aedes albopictus). Follow the links below for additional information.

Dengue Fever

Dengue fever can be caused by 4 related viruses, and along with Zika and chikungunya viruses, is transmitted in Florida by the yellow fever mosquito (Aedes aegypti) and the Asian tiger mosquito (Aedes albopictus). The problem was eliminated early in the last century in Florida.  However, it has resurfaced in recent years, probably due to its widespread occurrence throughout the world.  Not all four of the viruses are currently thought to occur in the state.  Any individual contracting a second virus type after a previous infection with another virus type is much more likely to develop hemorrhagic fever. Infection by just one viral type may result in symptoms similar to influenza.  There currently is no vaccine for dengue fever, but treatment is more easily managed if infections are caught early.  Again, your best defense against contracting dengue fever is to avoid the daytime mosquitoes that transmit it. Follow the links below for additional information.

For Professionals

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