Osceola County is taking action against a rise in mosquito-borne illnesses, authorizing a multi-day aerial spraying campaign to reduce mosquito populations and limit the spread of dengue fever across Central Florida.

The Osceola County Board of County Commissioners authorized Mosquito Control to procure a contractor for countywide aerial spraying following recent heavy rain and an approaching weather front expected to bring additional precipitation to the region. The Florida Department of Health has reported an uptick in locally transmitted mosquito-borne illnesses in the area.If weather prevents spraying, treatments will be rescheduled for alternate dates in October during the same hours. Treatments cannot be performed when it is raining or when winds exceed 10 mph.

Virginia Rodriguez, who walks her two dogs daily, said she often deals with them despite using mosquito repellent.

“Sometimes when they mow the lawn, it’s like a cloud of mosquitoes,” she said. “When it’s colder, it’s a little bit less of a problem. But when it’s too warm, they get under my hat; you cannot even open your eyes because they get into your eyes. They get me everywhere.”

Osceola County is not alone in its efforts. Orange County is currently conducting spraying in Apopka and Pine Hills following five confirmed dengue fever cases. Seminole County also reported a new case Wednesday.

Aerial treatments are conducted in accordance with U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommendations. Apiaries and beekeeping hobbyists concerned about potential impacts are encouraged to contact Osceola County Mosquito Control for additional resources.

Osceola County Mosquito Control will also continue ground-based efforts, including biological larvicide applications and evening spray treatments throughout the county as conditions allow.

County officials recommend the following steps to begin mosquito control at home:

• Drain standing water from containers, gutters and other items that collect water
• Cover skin with long sleeves and pants when outdoors
• Clear brush and debris from yards and remove aquatic weeds from ponds
• Use an EPA-registered insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus — always follow label instructions
• Avoid outdoor activity during peak mosquito hours, particularly around dusk and dawn
• Maintain your property by regularly emptying water-collecting containers and flushing birdbaths at least every three days