What is the primary purpose of surveillance in mosquito control?

The primary purpose of surveillance in mosquito control is to monitor populations and disease prevalence. This involves collecting data on mosquito populations, identifying species present, and tracking the presence of diseases that mosquitoes can transmit, such as West Nile virus or Zika virus. By understanding population dynamics and the associated risks of diseases, public health officials can make informed decisions about when and where to implement control measures, allocate resources effectively, and ultimately protect public health.

Surveillance serves as the backbone for effective mosquito management programs, providing critical information that guides strategies for pest control, habitat reduction, and public education. By keeping track of both the number of mosquitoes and the diseases they might carry, surveillance helps in predicting potential outbreaks and allows for proactive responses.