Clearwater faces helicopter spray as dengue cases climb 14 percent

Pinellas County Mosquito Control launches a new aerial intervention on Friday to address a rising number of dengue cases in Clearwater. The operation targets mosquito larvae with liquid treatments, a direct response to a 14 percent increase in confirmed cases reported by the Florida Department of Health.

The agency is executing the spray in partnership with Lee County Mosquito Control. Helicopters will fly low over designated zones in Clearwater between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. on Friday. Officials selected this window because it allows residents to stay indoors, though the agent used is safe for humans, pets, and pollinators. The low altitude is required to ensure the mist reaches standing water effectively.

The active ingredient is Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis, known as Bti. This soil bacterium is specific to mosquito larvae and black flies. It works by entering the unique gut environment of the larvae, where it releases a toxin. The same substance is found in mosquito dunks and bits available at local hardware stores.

The push for aerial treatment follows a report released on October 22. That data showed 51 confirmed dengue cases in Pinellas County since August. Across the Tampa Bay region, which includes Pasco and Hillsborough counties, total confirmed cases reached 401. This represents a 14 percent jump from the figures reported on October 15.

Residents can track the specific treatment routes on the Pinellas County website. The agency also offers an alert system for those who wish to receive notifications about scheduled aerial operations in their neighborhoods. The county is also waiving the tire disposal fee as part of its wider effort to reduce breeding grounds.