Due to the recent heavy rains, many jurisdictions are now facing a mosquito problem; this information may be helpful:
Due to the recent flooding in many jurisdictions, DSHS recommends an integrated mosquito
management program to mitigate potential breeding of mosquitoes with focus on the following:
Physical control of environment and source reduction of mosquito breeding sites:
• Improving land drainage
• Shredding old tires
• Eliminating sources of open sewage such as leaking septic systems
• Working with the public to eliminate artificial containers where mosquitoes breed
• Encourage proper water management by public/private agencies responsible for storm water
retention/detention structures and ditch and impoundment maintenance
Empower the community with the following public education tactics:
• Ensure all residents are maintaining yards that don’t contribute to a mosquito problem
• Wear protective clothing
• Use repellents
• Avoid high-risk sites
• Keep residents informed of measures that local government is taking and why they are
essential to protect human health
Routine integrated mosquito management is the responsibility of local jurisdictions and is
recommended to prevent human infection with mosquito-borne disease. The Texas Department of
State Health Services has no ongoing routine mosquito abatement programs. Vector control
measures may be eligible for FEMA reimbursement following a flood after the following criteria
have been met:
• Evidence of higher levels of disease transmitting mosquitoes in the disaster area following the
event
• Significant increase in the mosquito population that poses a threat to emergency workers
during recovery after an event
• Increase in human infections of mosquito-borne illness after an event
• Local jurisdiction has expended .40 cents per capita in any outbreak abatement effort prior to
requesting assistance from the state