Pinellas County Mosquito Control is intensifying efforts to reduce mosquito populations by focusing on container breeding, a significant contributor to the spread of mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue, chikungunya and Zika. The agency emphasizes the importance of eliminating standing water in man-made containers, which serve as breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
Caroline Scott, Senior Environmental Specialist with Pinellas County Mosquito Control, shared during a recnt press conference that mosquitoes require only a quarter inch of water to breed. In warmer months, they can develop from eggs to adults in as little as five to seven days. Common household items like buckets, children’s toys, tires, planters and even tree holes can collect water and become breeding sites. Residents are advised to inspect their properties weekly and remove any standing water to disrupt the mosquito life cycle.
To assist in these efforts, Pinellas County is hosting a free tire disposal event Saturday, April 19, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., at three locations: HHW North in Clearwater, Walsingham Park in Seminole and Lealman Exchange in St. Petersburg. Residents can drop off up to 12 tires (without rims and no larger than 36 inches in diameter) at no cost…