15 September, 2026
Media Contact:
Zachary.Downes@ocfl.net
PIO@ocfl.net
WHAT:
Orange County Mosquito Control is now able to detect mosquito-borne illnesses in the mosquito population faster after adding new testing technology to its laboratory, improving mosquito mitigation protocols while reducing costs and waiting times.
The new molecular testing capability uses PCR technology to look for the genetic material of specific viruses within mosquito samples. The highly sensitive method allows laboratory staff to determine whether mosquitoes collected through the Mosquito Control surveillance program are carrying certain mosquito-borne illnesses.
The staff can now test mosquitoes for:
West Nile Virus
Eastern Equine Encephalitis Virus
St. Louis Encephalitis Virus
Dengue Virus – all four types
Zika Virus
Chikungunya Virus
“This new technology’s biggest advantage is saving time,” said Steve Harrison, manager for Orange County Mosquito Control. “Previously, we had to send samples outside of our laboratory. Now, we can potentially have results in the same day, which will lead to faster responses and mitigation efforts.”
Members of the media are invited to Orange County Mosquito Control on Friday, September 18, 2026, at 9 a.m. to witness the new testing process and speak to Steve Harrison about how it will improve Mosquito Control efforts and protect the public health of Orange County. Please email Zach Downes at Zachary.downes@ocfl.net to coordinate a visit by end of the business day on Thursday, September 17, 2026.
WHERE:
Orange County Mosquito Control
6330 Silver Star Road, Orlando, FL 31818
WHEN:
Friday, September 18, 2026
9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
PHOTO/VIDEO OPPORTUNITIES:
The new PCR testing system being used, the Mosquito Control laboratory, Laboratory staff working, Mosquito test samples,
INTERVIEW OPPORTUNITY:
Steve Harrison, Manager, Orange County Mosquito Control
Jose Colon-Muniz, Program Manager, Orange County Mosquito Control (Spanish requests)
About Orange County Government: Orange County Government strives to serve its residents and guests with integrity, honesty, fairness and professionalism. Located in Central Florida, Orange County includes 13 municipalities and is home to world-famous theme parks, one of the nation’s largest convention centers and a thriving life science research park. Seven elected members make up the Board of County Commissioners, including the Mayor, who is elected countywide. For more information, please visit www.OCFL.net or go to Orange County Government’s social media channels.