Aerial Spraying in Bradenton Targets Mosquitoes Amid Dengue Cases
In response to at least three reported cases of dengue fever in Bradenton, Florida, the Manatee County Mosquito Control District conducted aerial spraying of malathion over approximately 10,000 acres in west and northwest Bradenton. The targeted area extended from the Manatee River to Cortez and from Palma Sola to downtown Bradenton.
Malathion is an organophosphate insecticide commonly used in mosquito control efforts. It is applied as an ultra-low volume (ULV) spray, dispersing fine airborne aerosol droplets to effectively target flying mosquitoes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has evaluated malathion and determined that it does not pose significant risks to human health or the environment when used according to label instructions.
The Manatee County Mosquito Control District employs an Integrated Mosquito Management (IMM) approach, which includes source reduction, larviciding, and adulticiding to control mosquito populations. Aerial spraying is typically conducted during late evening and nighttime hours when adult mosquitoes are most active. The district uses minimal quantities of insecticide—less than one ounce per acre—and the spray droplets are designed to degrade rapidly, minimizing potential impacts on other organisms.
Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne illness transmitted primarily by Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. Symptoms include high fever, severe headaches, joint and muscle pain, and rash. Florida has experienced increased dengue cases due to favorable breeding conditions for mosquitoes following recent hurricanes. State and local agencies have intensified mosquito control measures, including aerial spraying, to mitigate the spread of dengue and other mosquito-borne diseases.
Residents are advised to take personal protective measures, such as using insect repellent, wearing long sleeves and pants, and eliminating standing water around their homes to reduce mosquito breeding sites. For more information or to request mosquito control services, individuals can contact the Manatee County Mosquito Control District.