University of Wisconsin–Madison

Mosquito Projects

Midwest Center of Excellence for Vector-Borne Disease partners lead a variety of innovative applied research projects that help us better understand how to control mosquitoes and limit the spread of mosquito-borne disease in the Midwest.

Current Research Projects

Improving mosquito control for WNV prevention

Evaluating the real world impact of larval and adult control approaches on Culex pipiens abundance and West Nile virus transmission rates so mosquito control agencies can make smarter operational decisions. Partners: NSMAD, NWMAD, and UW-Madison

Photo of 4 adults wearing safety vest and holding mosquito nets
Photo of wooded area with black painted boxes on the ground.

Innovative approaches to control Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) virus

Designing and deploying insecticide-treated resting boxes to decrease Culiseta melanura numbers and reduce the likelihood of EEE virus transmission. Partner: Michigan State University

Developing statistical models to better predict WNV outbreaks

Using real-world data to create user-friendly models that help mosquito abatement districts and public health partners better predict WNV activity and improve operational decision making. Partner: University of Illinois

Heat map of Chicago area
Man standing in large tunnel with water up to his ankles.

Exploring below-ground mosquito habitats

Evaluating the role of urban storm drain systems in mosquito breeding and develop control methods. Partners: North Shore Mosquito Abatement District and Northwest Mosquito Abatement District

Optimizing catch basin treatments

Testing how well different larvicide treatments in catch basins work in order to maximize control duration and effectiveness. Partners: North Shore Mosquito Abatement District and Northwest Mosquito Abatement District

55 gallon drums in a line outside a building.