County Judge Daniel Wong Declares Public Health Emergency to Support Mosquito Control Operations
Richmond, TX – Fort Bend County Judge Daniel Wong has issued a Declaration of Local Public Health Emergency in response to extraordinary mosquito populations affecting large portions of Fort Bend County following weeks of persistent rainfall and widespread standing water.
Health officials report mosquito activity well above normal seasonal levels, creating significant impacts on residents across the county. From May 1 through June 2, Fort Bend County Health & Human Services received 1,505 mosquito-related complaints — more than twice the number received following Hurricane Beryl. Surveillance efforts have also documented mosquito trap counts reaching as high as 5,000 mosquitoes in a single collection period, far exceeding typical high-season levels.
“Protecting the health, safety, and quality of life of Fort Bend County residents is one of our highest responsibilities,” said Fort Bend County Judge Daniel Wong. “Our Health & Human Services team has documented mosquito activity at levels that require immediate action. This declaration allows us to utilize every available tool to address the problem and provide relief to our communities.”
The declaration supports Fort Bend County’s efforts to conduct aerial mosquito control operations in areas where mosquito populations have reached extraordinary levels. While county mosquito control teams continue extensive ground-based treatment operations, health officials have determined that the scale and geographic scope of the current infestation require additional measures to achieve timely and effective population reduction.
Because portions of the treatment area are located within restricted or controlled airspace, the declaration will assist the county in obtaining necessary coordination and authorization from the Federal Aviation
Administration to conduct aerial operations safely and efficiently. Current plans call for aerial spraying operations to occur early next week, weather permitting, with treatment schedules subject to adjustment based on rainfall and wind conditions.
“When experts bring forward clear data and sound recommendations, government must respond,” said County Judge Wong. “This action reflects a proactive approach to protecting public health, reducing the risk of mosquito-borne illness, and ensuring our residents can safely enjoy their neighborhoods, parks, and outdoor spaces.”
Aerial mosquito control operations will be conducted by licensed and qualified applicators in accordance with all federal and state regulations, safety requirements, and environmental guidelines. These efforts will supplement ongoing ground operations and are intended to rapidly reduce mosquito populations in the most heavily affected areas of the county.
Fort Bend County Health & Human Services will provide additional information regarding treatment areas, schedules, and public guidance as operations are finalized.
Mosquito Spraying in Meadows Place and Fort Bend County
As many have experienced, mosquitos seem to be everywhere this year. The situation is not isolated to just Meadows Place.
Fort Bend County Judge Daniel Wong has declared a local public health emergency in response to the mosquito numbers. While the release does not include specific locations, the County is going to start aerial mosquito control operations. (Read the release below)
𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐢𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐂𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐝𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐠?
(Weather Permitting)
– Weekly mosquito spraying started in March and will continue until November
– Checking around our facilities to remove or adjust items that might hold water.
– Keeping grasses groomed weekly and landscaping maintained.
– Fixing irrigation leaks as to not allow standing water.
– Making sure the lake fountains are working as to create moving water that deter mosquitos from laying eggs.
– When low spots are found on the trails, they are filled.
– Working to not create new low spots with equipment in areas where the ground is soft.
𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐜𝐚𝐧 𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬 𝐝𝐨?
– Wear insect repellent when outdoors.
– Avoid going outside at dawn and dusk, when mosquitos are most active.
– Remove standing water around your home to prevent mosquito breeding.