AI Traps Speed Up Florida Dengue Fight

Florida is currently experiencing its most significant dengue outbreak in decades, with local health officials reporting hundreds of cases. As of October 31, 2026, 524 locally acquired dengue cases were reported across the state, with Hillsborough County alone recording 407 cases, marking its largest outbreak on record. The situation has prompted Hillsborough County to extend its state of local emergency through November 19, 2026, as mosquito control efforts intensify.

To combat this growing threat, researchers at the University of South Florida have developed an innovative AI mosquito trap. This technology, dating back to 2018, uses cameras and artificial intelligence to identify mosquito species from images with over 98% accuracy in laboratory settings. The system aims to drastically reduce the time needed for mosquito surveillance from days to mere hours, enabling quicker responses.

The AI traps can also distinguish between male and female mosquitoes and indicate if they have recently fed, providing crucial data for public health officials. By identifying the presence of disease-carrying species like Aedes aegypti, the primary vector for dengue in Florida, control teams can strategically deploy resources. Digitomy, the startup commercializing this technology, is working with USF's Technology Transfer office to license the system to established manufacturers.