Charleston County officials are stepping up efforts to fight mosquitoes this week with aerial inspections and treatments across the area.
Charleston County Mosquito Control Announces Aerial Operations
According to a release from Charleston County Mosquito Control, crews will be conducting aerial inspections and treatments of standing water from September 2 through September 8, operating daily between 7 a.m. and 9 p.m.
What the Treatment Involves
The focus will be on aquatic-stage mosquitoes—those still in the water before they become flying adults. By treating water where mosquitoes breed, the county hopes to reduce the overall population and lower the risk of mosquito-borne illnesses.
Operations will mainly target open spaces with standing water, but some flights will pass over populated neighborhoods in order to properly inspect and treat breeding grounds.
Why It Matters
Mosquitoes thrive in Charleston’s warm, humid climate, and standing water after rainfall creates ideal breeding conditions. Controlling the population is important for:
Reducing the spread of mosquito-borne diseases like West Nile virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis
Improving residents’ quality of life by cutting down on biting mosquitoes
Keeping outdoor areas safer and more comfortable
Charleston County Mosquito Control’s aerial operations are part of an ongoing effort to manage mosquito populations and protect public health. Residents may notice low-flying aircraft in the mornings and evenings, but the treatments are routine and designed to keep communities safer from mosquito-borne risks.