Louisiana Uses Drones To Fight Out-Of-Control Mosquitos

A community in northern Louisiana has deployed drones to combat growing mosquito populations.

Caddo Parish Mosquito Control and Animal Services are responsible for mosquito control in a 900 square mile area. This year they have deployed drones to spray insecticide in the most difficult to reach places in the region.

“We’re excited to be able to treat mosquitoes in the parish in areas we haven’t been able to treat before,” said Brian Glascock, Caddo Mosquito Control Manager. “We can fly the drone over these areas and drop larvicide, hitting the mosquito larvae before they become adults.”

West Nile Virus, a life-threatening disease spread by mosquitoes, continues to be a problem in Louisiana.

Most people infected with West Nile virus either don’t develop signs or symptoms or have only minor ones, such as fever and mild headache. However, some people develop a life-threatening illness that includes inflammation of the spinal cord or brain.

Mild signs and symptoms of a West Nile virus infection generally go away on their own. But severe signs and symptoms — such as a severe headache, fever, disorientation, or sudden weakness — need immediate attention.

Exposure to mosquitoes where the West Nile virus exists increases your risk of getting infected. You can lower your risk by protecting yourself from mosquitoes by using mosquito repellent and wearing clothing that covers your skin. (Mayo clinic).

Mosquito samples from Caddo Parish are sent daily to Louisiana State University for analysis.