What are mosquitoes?
Mosquitoes are common, flying insects that live in most parts of the world. Over 3,500 types of mosquitoes can be found worldwide. Not all mosquitoes bite people or animals. When mosquitoes bite people, the most common reactions to the bite are itching and swelling. Some mosquitoes can be vectors. A vector is an animal, insect, or tick that spreads pathogens (germs) to people and animals. The germs (viruses and parasites) that mosquitoes spread can make you sick. Some mosquitoes bite, but do not spread germs. These types of mosquitoes are called nuisance mosquitoes.
What is mosquito surveillance?
Local government departments and mosquito control professionals track the numbers and types of mosquitoes in an area and the germs they may be spreading. When infected adult mosquitoes are spreading germs to people, acting quickly can stop further spread and prevent people from getting sick. Professionals share prevention information with the public and use multiple methods at the same time to kill mosquito larvae and adult mosquitoes.