91 - Collaborative efforts between Delta Mosquito & Vector Control District and Oxitec in the Central Valley of California

Abstract: The yellow fever mosquito Aedes aegypti (Linn.) is an invasive species in California. Since 2013, Ae. aegypti has spread and become established in 23 counties in the state, posing unique challenges to mosquito control because of its diel periodicity, proximity to people, and use of cryptic harborages. Delta Mosquito and Vector Control District (MVCD) invited Oxitec Ltd. to evaluate their self-limiting gene technology against invasive Ae. aegypti within our District, pending state regulatory approval. This presentation will focus on community education and outreach efforts by Delta MVCD and Oxitec. Thousands of homes were visited, and over twice as many homeowners have signed up to host male mosquito-release boxes and traps to collect adults and larvae. Delta MVCD and Oxitec have attended baseball games, farm markets, fairs, and community clubs to speak directly with homeowners about Oxitec's self-limiting gene technology. The public support for this technology has been widespread and enthusiastic.