Mosquito Control

Burlington County, as the largest county in New Jersey, has large areas that have potential to breed mosquitoes. These areas include, farm land, wetlands (fresh and salt water), home yards, stormwater facilities, and sewer plants. These areas need to be addressed as best as possible to control mosquitoes and the viruses they can spread. One of the best ways to control a pest over a large area is by approaching the area as an area-wide integrated pest management. Integrated pest management is an approach that focuses on multiple sources to control a pest; while area wide tries to group it all together and get everyone working at once.

Mosquito Complaint Form

Mosquito complaints must be in reference to a low lying area, stagnant water container or tires.Complete the

Mosquito Complaint Form.

Swimming pool complaints should be entered using the below form

Health Department Complaint Form.

Proven Control Techniques

There are some proven techniques to control mosquitoes:

• Biological control - The use of other animals (fish, other insects, bacteria, etc.)
• Chemical control - The use of pesticides
• Cultural control - Education
• Environmental control - The reduction of breeding habitat

By using all these techniques we can hope to reduce the risk of mosquito born disease as well as reduce the nuisance complaints.

Transmitted Diseases

Mosquitoes have probably had a greater influence on human health and well-being throughout the world than any other insect. Mosquitoes are pests, causing severe annoyance at times; bites can itch for days, and some people may actually suffer restlessness, loss of sleep and nervous irritation. Mosquitoes have also been shown to cause serious economic loss through restriction of outdoor activities. In extreme cases, mosquitoes have actually caused the death of humans and domestic animals.

Not only are mosquitoes a nuisance, they are also capable of transmitting numerous diseases to humans: diseases such as encephalitis and malaria, both of which occur in the United States. Locally, both Eastern Equine Encephalitis and St. Louis Encephalitis can be transmitted to humans by mosquitoes. Since the outbreak of West Nile Encephalitis in New Your City in 1999 and its ever widening spread throughout the county and state; the County of Burlington is continuing to increase its program in the control of West Nile Virus and encephalitis in Burlington County.

Mosquitoes also transmit animal diseases. Included is Eastern Equine Encephalitis and West Nile, which affects horses and birds as well as humans, and dog heartworm.

Division Programs

The Division of Mosquito Control employs an integrated mosquito control program, blending chemical and biological control and water management. In addition, the division conducts a comprehensive mosquito surveillance program, as well as a variety of maintenance programs.