Mosquitoes are a common presence throughout Florida, found in various habitats from coastal areas to inland swamps and urban environments. They are a year-round reality for residents and visitors alike.
Why Florida is a Mosquito Hotspot
Florida’s subtropical climate is ideal for mosquitoes. Warm temperatures and abundant rainfall, especially during the long wet season, provide consistent breeding grounds. Mosquitoes thrive in temperatures ranging from the upper 70s to 90s Fahrenheit.
Numerous bodies of water also contribute to Florida’s suitability for mosquitoes. Natural wetlands, such as swamps and marshes, along with man-made features like retention ponds and ditches, serve as breeding sites. Even small accumulations of standing water, like those in flowerpots or abandoned tires, can host mosquito eggs.
Common Mosquito Species and Associated Diseases
Florida is home to over 80 mosquito species, some of which transmit serious diseases. Four species are notable for transmitting human illnesses: Aedes aegypti, Aedes albopictus, Culex quinquefasciatus, and Anopheles quadrimaculatus.
Aedes aegypti, often called the yellow fever mosquito, and Aedes albopictus, the Asian tiger mosquito, are aggressive daytime biters thriving in urban settings. These species transmit dengue, Zika virus, chikungunya, and yellow fever. Florida regularly experiences small dengue outbreaks, with recent local cases reported.
The Culex quinquefasciatus, or southern house mosquito, is active at dawn, dusk, and night. This species can transmit West Nile virus and St. Louis encephalitis. West Nile virus is the leading cause of mosquito-borne disease in the continental United States, with cases most common from June through September.
Anopheles quadrimaculatus, the common malaria mosquito, bites at dawn, dusk, and night, breeding in freshwater streams, ponds, and lakes. This species is a primary malaria vector. In 2023, Florida reported seven locally acquired malaria cases, the first since 2003. Various mosquito species, including Aedes, Culex, and Coquillettidia genera, can also transmit Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE), which cycles between birds and mosquitoes. EEE can cause severe neurological symptoms and has a high fatality rate in both humans and horses.
Protecting Yourself from Mosquitoes
Minimizing mosquito bites helps prevent mosquito-borne diseases. Using EPA-registered insect repellents on exposed skin and clothing is an effective strategy. Common active ingredients include DEET, picaridin, IR3535, and oil of lemon eucalyptus. Picaridin, a synthetic version of a compound found in pepper plants, is effective and generally odorless.
Wearing appropriate clothing also provides a physical barrier. Long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and socks can help cover skin, especially during peak mosquito activity times, such as dawn and dusk. Light-colored clothing may also be helpful in deterring mosquitoes. Ensure window and door screens are intact and regularly repaired to prevent mosquitoes from entering indoor spaces.
Eliminating standing water around homes is a key preventive measure, as mosquitoes only need a small amount of water to lay eggs. Regularly empty water from common containers such as garbage cans, buckets, flowerpots, and old tires. Cleaning gutters and maintaining swimming pools are also important steps to reduce breeding sites.
Florida’s Mosquito Control Efforts
Florida has established mosquito control districts and programs to manage mosquito populations. These efforts are important for public health. Programs use various methods to reduce mosquito numbers and disease risk.
Surveillance monitors mosquito populations and tests for viruses. Larvicides are applied to water bodies to target larvae before they develop into biting adults. Adulticides, typically sprays, control adult mosquito populations. These comprehensive efforts aim to mitigate mosquito-borne disease risks, though they cannot eliminate all mosquitoes.