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Biting Midges-Current Knowledge and Research Needs Symposium II

Biting Midges-Current Knowledge and Research Needs Symposium II

Biting Midges-Current Knowledge and Research Needs Symposium II

235 - Lee County Mosquito Control District’s preparation for an operational response to Oropouche in southwest Florida

Thursday, March 26, 2026
11:15 AM - 11:30 AM PDT
Location: B119
Abstract: Outside of the United States in South America, Oropouche virus is locally transmitted by biting midges and transmission has recently expanded into the Caribbean. Florida has now documented 104 travel-related Oropouche cases in 2024, highlighting the need for the development of best practices for effective biting midge control programs. Unlike mosquito larvae that thrive in shallow stagnant water, biting midge larvae inhabit the top 5-6 cm of semi-moist soil rendering mosquito control larval treatments ineffective due to the inability of compounds to penetrate wet soil. With the absence of area-wide biting midge larval treatments, vector control professionals must rely on adult biting midge control techniques that are modified from adult mosquito control protocols to protect the public from biting midges. Our Mosquito-Borne Disease Response Plan allows LCMCD to respond proactively to any suspected activity, whether it is travel related or local transmission. This presentation will discuss LCMCD’s Oropouche Response Plan and highlight semi-field trials evaluating mosquito control adulticides and spray techniques, and their effectiveness in suppressing biting midge populations.