Culex tarsalis Surveillance Method

Surveillance methods are used to understand local mosquito populations. Surveillance techniques should be targeted at mosquito species that can transmit disease to people. Active surveillance needs to be utilized to identify and control Culex tarsalis mosquitoes.

Active surveillance uses multiple techniques such as trapping mosquitoes, counting trapped mosquitoes to obtain population estimates, testing trapped mosquitoes for pathogens, identification of potential breeding sources. When trapping adult mosquitoes, it is important to identify the species of concern to reduce costs of testing. CDC gravid traps are the standard surveillance tool for adult Culex mosquitoes. Trap placement should start with traps being placed evenly throughout the geographic location. This will help to identify areas with higher mosquito activity and where subsequent control efforts should be focused.

Additional Links:
https://www.cdc.gov/ncezid/dvbd/pdf/arboguid_508.pdf