Field Operations Supervisor Metropolitan Mosquito Control District, Minnesota, United States
Abstract: Metropolitan Mosquito Control District (MMCD) plays a crucial role in monitoring and reducing the risk of mosquito-borne diseases across Minnesota’s seven-county metropolitan area. With recent elevations in West Nile virus activity and other vector concerns, proactive surveillance and responsive strategies are more important than ever.
Beyond surveillance, use of public education events to engage directly with the community will be detailed. Building trust and raising awareness about both mosquito biology and prevention practices are vital practices and MMCD’s outreach efforts create stronger community partnerships that support its disease prevention mission. Good relationships with the public are an essential component of MMCD’s extensive trap surveillance network. Attendees will learn how each surveillance tool operates on a weekly timeline, the range of habitats monitored, disease testing procedure, and how these methods together provide a comprehensive picture of vector activity. The presentation will also highlight the challenges inherent in field operations, such as gaining access to private property for inspections and addressing concerns over control materials and what MMCD must do to balance public health needs with community expectations.
This session will highlight how an integrated program grounded strongly in public outreach, surveillance, and responsive fieldwork enables MMCD to meet the evolving challenges of mosquito-borne disease prevention in the metropolitan area.
