Mosquito Activity Is Up: Dress, Defend and Dump

Published on August 12, 2026

Mosquitoes

Pinellas County Mosquito Control has seen increased transmission of mosquito-borne viruses in Pinellas County and the surrounding Tampa Bay area and is urging residents to protect themselves and their loved ones from mosquitoes and help prevent mosquito breeding.

Recent rainfall has created plentiful habitat for mosquitoes to breed, including around parks, natural areas, homes and businesses. Mosquito-borne viruses have been detected in Pinellas County and standing water increases the risk of transmission.

Pinellas County Mosquito Control has initiated enhanced mosquito treatments, including increased truck fogging, aerial larviciding and localized ground inspections for mosquito breeding locations.

Neighboring Hillsborough County has also recently reported confirmed cases of locally acquired dengue fever. Residents traveling throughout the Tampa Bay area are encouraged to take precautions and remain vigilant.

Remember the 3 Ds

The best way to prevent mosquito bites is to follow the 3 Ds: Dress, Defend and Dump.

  • Dress in light-colored, long-sleeved clothing with closed-toed shoes.
  • Defend using an insect repellent with a CDC-recommended ingredient such as DEET, Picaridin, IR3535 or Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus.
  • Dump or cover standing water, including debris from recent rains that may be holding water.

Residents can help reduce mosquito breeding around their homes by regularly checking yards and outdoor areas for standing water. Mosquitoes can breed in water that collects in containers and other items around homes and businesses.

How Pinellas County Controls Mosquitoes

Pinellas County Mosquito Control provides mosquito treatment and prevention services throughout the county, including all 24 municipalities. Its highest priority is protecting public health and mitigating the risk of mosquito-borne illnesses.

Mosquito Control uses an integrated pest management program focused on surveillance, prevention and treating mosquitoes before they become biting adults. The County monitors the environment for the presence of mosquito-transmitted diseases and takes appropriate abatement actions when needed.

The County also works to prevent mosquito breeding by eliminating standing water where possible and encourages residents to do the same around their homes. Treatment decisions are based on data, with an emphasis on treating mosquitoes while they are larvae.

Pinellas County Mosquito Control works closely with the Florida Department of Health to monitor cases of mosquito-borne illness and respond with mosquito treatment to reduce the risk of illness spreading.

Request Mosquito Control Service

Residents can contact Pinellas County Mosquito Control to request mosquito treatment and prevention services:

Call: (727) 464-7503
Email: mosquitocontrol@pinellas.gov
Online: Request service through Pinellas County's online service request app.

If you believe you have a mosquito-borne illness, please immediately contact the Florida Department of Health in Pinellas County at (727) 824-6932.

 

 

 

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