Status of Vector Control Capabilities and Capacities in Florida and Texas, and its Potential Public Health...

It has been reported that roughly 80% of vector control organizations throughout the southern USA lack critical capabilities to properly address potential vector populations and vector-borne diseases within their jurisdictions. This study further investigated current vector control capabilities and capacity within the states of Florida and Texas. It was reported that only 26% of jurisdictions in Florida and 14% in Texas reported that they were "fully capable." Both states are among the top 4 states relative to the number of human cases of mosquito-borne diseases, and both states have had local transmission of Zika virus. Respondents from Florida indicated that 88% of jurisdictions have vector control capabilities to some degree, with 65% of those reporting they had sufficient capabilities. Respondents from Texas indicated that 89% of jurisdictions have vector control capabilities to some degree, with 67% of those reporting they had sufficient capabilities. As the prioritization of resource commitment for vector control capabilities varies throughout the USA, it is imperative that each state evaluates their specific needs and current capabilities and capacity to best ensure the public health needs of their constituents.