Welcome to Gulf South VECTOR—Protecting Public Health

Gulf South VECTOR works to prevent and control vector-borne diseases through research, outreach, and strategic partnerships. We provide tools and knowledge to help communities reduce the impact of mosquitoes and other disease-carrying vectors.

What is a Vector?

MOSQUITOES
Known as one of the deadliest creatures on Earth, mosquitoes are responsible for spreading diseases such as malaria, dengue, Zika virus, and West Nile virus.
RODENTS
Rodents like rats and mice are not just a nuisance; they can spread diseases such as hantavirus, leptospirosis, and plague through their droppings, urine, or bites.
TICKS
Often found in grassy or wooded areas, ticks can carry Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and other serious illnesses.
FLEAS
Tiny but troublesome, fleas can transmit the bacteria that causes plague, as well as the parasite responsible for tapeworm infections.

Events

Social

Vampires aren't the only bloodsuckers to watch out for this Halloween!

As you head out for spooky festivities, don't forget to protect yourself from mosquitoes and other biting pests. 🦟

Keep the scares fun and the bites away by using EPA-registered insect repellent and taking steps to prevent mosquito bites.

Wishing you a safe, spooky, and bite-free Halloween from Gulf South VECTOR! 🧡🖤

#halloween #gulfsouthVECTOR #mosquitoprevention #vectorawareness #publichealth
Florida is seeing one of its largest outbreaks of locally acquired dengue on record, a reminder that mosquito-borne disease risk is real and close to home. 🏠🦟

Whether you live in an affected area or are planning to visit, personal protection and source reduction are essential steps in reducing your risk. 

#dengue #fightthebite #vectoroutreach #gulfsouthvector
Mythbuster Monday! 🐀🔍

A common claim circulating online suggests that mixing baking soda with sugar or cornmeal will cause a fatal buildup of gases in rats. There is no scientific basis for this idea, and it is not a reliable method of rodent control. 

#mythvsfact #rodentcontrol #pestmanagement #vectoroutreach
Love watching birds but not the rodents that show up for the leftovers? 

You’re not alone. Removing food sources is the most effective step in keeping pests away, and that includes the seed under your feeder. Birdhouses, nesting boxes, and a good pair of binoculars are great ways to keep enjoying wildlife without rolling out the welcome mat for rats and mice.

#rodentawarenessweek #pestcontrol #vectoroutreach
Rodent Awareness Week shines a spotlight on the health and property risks posed by rats and mice.🐀🐭

The week encourages communities to recognize early signs of rodent activity, reduce attractants like food and clutter, and understand how professional, science‑based control protects public health. It’s a reminder that proactive prevention is far more effective than dealing with a full infestation later.

#rodentawarenessweek #pestcontrol #vectoroutreach
One week til BugFest! 

Gulf South VECTOR is a proud sponsor & exhibitor of this year's BugFest. 

Hosted by the New Orleans Mosquito, Termite and Rodent Control Board, BugFest brings together entomologists, educators, conservation organizations, and community partners for an interactive festival designed to inspire curiosity about the natural world.

#bugfest2026
It’s hurricane season. 🌀🌧️

After a storm, standing water can collect in containers, gutters, debris, and other outdoor areas, creating ideal places for mosquitoes to develop. 

Protect yourself, your family, and your pets by removing standing water, using an EPA-registered insect repellent, and checking screens on windows and doors.
Environmental conditions directly influence vector biology and disease risk. Understanding that connection is essential to effective prevention and control. 🌍🦟

#environmentalhealth #vectorcontrol #vectorbornediseases

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