Hillsborough County, FL – Hillsborough County is receiving additional mosquito control assistance from Lee County as officials expand aerial treatments in response to dengue virus activity in the Tampa area.
The Lee County Mosquito Control District sent helicopters, pilots and specialized equipment to Hillsborough County to support local mosquito management operations targeting larvae.
Three Lee County helicopters were scheduled to stage at Tampa Executive Airport before beginning treatment flights Wednesday.
One of the primary treatment locations is the East Lake area, where crews are conducting low-altitude daytime flights. The aerial operation is designed to treat mosquito larvae before they develop into adults capable of spreading disease.
The East Lake treatment area stretches from the Hillsborough River to Columbus Drive and East Broadway Avenue, with the Tampa Bypass Canal forming its eastern boundary. Portions of North 56th Street, U.S. 41 and North 50th Street form the western boundary.
Additional aerial mosquito treatments are being conducted in Bloomingdale and Riverview with assistance from contractors.
Hillsborough County expanded mosquito control operations after surveillance detected dengue virus activity in local mosquito populations.
County officials declared a state of local emergency on Sept. 24. The declaration provides additional flexibility for response efforts and could allow the county to seek reimbursement for eligible expenses.
Hillsborough has also coordinated with mosquito control agencies in Manatee and Pasco counties to increase access to aircraft, pilots and treatment resources.
Local mosquito management officials are working with the Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County on surveillance and response efforts.
Residents are encouraged to regularly remove standing water around their properties, use insect repellent and wear protective clothing outdoors.
Aerial treatment operations remain dependent on weather and other conditions.