WMMAD Surveillance and Testing

The WMMAD strategically place traps in various sites throughout the district.  We currently have 130 alternating sites.  Our district uses the cdc light trap.  These traps capture a wide range of mosquito species as it relies on a source of carbon dioxide, to attract the mosquitoes.   Our action thresholds must be met in order to trigger an adult mosquito ULV treatment.  Through trapping we must observe that mosquitos are present, or a complaint by a constituent will also be considered surveillance.  

Population & Disease Surveillance

Trapping allows us to monitor if there is a sudden increase in the mosquito population, and to monitor the species.  This helps us to understand the best time to respond with treatment.  The traps are sorted and the mosquito species that can carry the West Nile virus or other diseases are collected and tested.  

The district currently monitors for WEE, SLE, and WNV with RT-PCR technology.  We test throughout the summer months and report our findings to the state health department.