SGV Mosquito Match Releases 30,000 Male Mosquitoes Weekly in Bassett to Curb Aedes aegypti
Updated
Updated · Pasadena Now · Jul 8
SGV Mosquito Match Releases 30,000 Male Mosquitoes Weekly in Bassett to Curb Aedes aegypti
1 articles · Updated · Pasadena Now · Jul 8
Summary
Bassett will receive more than 30,000 EPA-approved WB1 male mosquitoes each week for 16 weeks from July through October across a 25-acre neighborhood targeted by SGV Mosquito Match.
Wolbachia bacteria make the released males incompatible with wild Aedes aegypti females, so eggs do not hatch and the invasive mosquito population should decline over time.
Historical surveillance data drove the Bassett selection, where established Aedes aegypti populations have raised concern about local transmission of dengue, Zika and chikungunya as the species spreads across the San Gabriel Valley.
Officials said the species-specific releases will not bite or harm people, pets, wildlife, bees or butterflies, though residents may initially notice more mosquitoes before biting pressure eases.
The program adds to California vector-control efforts using sterile insect techniques, but the district said residents still need to remove standing water and use EPA-approved repellents to limit mosquito-borne disease risk.