Mosquito Surveillance Using Mosquito Collection Devices
Some of our members have conducted mosquito collection efforts across various regions of New Mexico using specialized trapping devices. The mosquitoes collected are carefully identified by species and tested to determine whether they carry West Nile Virus.Â
Looking ahead, PMHS is planning similar mosquito collection and testing work in villages across western Kenya. These efforts will focus on identifying local mosquito species and determining whether they carry malaria parasites, as well as identifying the specific types of malaria present.
In many underserved and lower-resource communities, mosquito populations can become more concentrated due to a combination of environmental and social factors. These factors often include standing water from poor drainage or inadequate water storage, limited access to window screens and bed nets, overcrowded living conditions, incomplete sanitation systems, proximity to agricultural irrigation, and reduced community capacity for regular mosquito control measures.Â
What We Do
At Pediatric and Maternal Health Solutions, we work with communities and health partners to strengthen mosquito surveillance and reduce the risk of mosquito-borne disease. Our efforts include:
Collecting and identifying mosquitoes in high-risk areas
Testing mosquitoes for West Nile Virus in New Mexico and planning similar surveillance for malaria in western Kenya
Increasing community awareness of mosquito-borne disease risks and prevention
Supporting practical, locally informed strategies that address environmental and social factors that allow mosquito populations to thrive
Mosquito-borne diseases affect both health and daily life in underserved communities. Through surveillance, education, and partnerships, PMHS is working to improve early detection and reduce preventable illness in the United States and abroad.
Why It Matters
Effects of West Nile Virus
Most people infected with West Nile Virus show no symptoms. About 1 in 5 develop West Nile fever, which can include fever, headache, body aches, joint pain, vomiting, diarrhea, or a rash. In rare cases (fewer than 1%), the virus causes serious neurologic illness such as meningitis or encephalitis. These severe forms can lead to high fever, neck stiffness, disorientation, tremors, seizures, paralysis, or long-term disability, and in some cases can be fatal—especially among older adults and people with weakened immune systems.
Only certain mosquito species are known to transmit the virus. The primary species of concern in the region include Culex tarsalis, Culex pipiens, and Culex quinquefasciatus. Identifying these species and detecting the presence of West Nile Virus allows for more targeted public health responses and better protection of local communities.
Likewise detection and monitoring of malaria carrying mosquitos and the type of malaria they carry will strengthen local prevention and treatment strategies in high-risk areas.