An update on Aedes albopictus in Florida

Area of Science:

• Entomology
• Arbovirology
• Environmental Science

Background:

• Aedes albopictus, the Asian tiger mosquito, is an invasive species of significant public health concern.
• Previous reports documented Aedes albopictus in two Florida counties.
• Mosquito-borne diseases, such as Eastern equine encephalitis, pose a threat to public health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To update the known distribution of Aedes albopictus in Florida.
• To report new county records for Aedes albopictus infestations.
• To test mosquito pools for the presence of Eastern equine encephalitis virus.
• To review the current status of waste tire regulations in Florida.

Main Methods:

• Field surveys were conducted to identify Aedes albopictus presence.
• Mosquito pools were collected and tested for Eastern equine encephalitis virus using molecular methods.
• A review of Florida's regulations pertaining to waste tires was performed.

Main Results:

• Aedes albopictus infestations were confirmed in two previously reported Florida counties.
• Nine new Florida counties were identified as having Aedes albopictus infestations.
• Eastern equine encephalitis virus was not detected in the tested mosquito pools.
• The current regulatory landscape for waste tires in Florida was summarized.

Conclusions:

• The geographic range of Aedes albopictus in Florida has expanded.
• While Eastern equine encephalitis virus was not detected in this study, ongoing surveillance is crucial.
• Waste tire management remains an important environmental consideration in Florida, potentially impacting mosquito control efforts.