The CDC miniature light trap can use several attractants to lure mosquitoes into the collection chamber. Light is the primary source, but bottled CO2 gas or dry ice can also be used. CMMCP removes the light source to reduce unwanted samples (moth, beetles, etc.) and uses bottled CO2 gas. These traps can give us a snapshot of the current mosquito populations and densities. Traps are hung at head height (~6 ft.) to sample for mammal-biting species, and can also be hung in the tree canopy to sample for bird-biting species.
CMMCP deploys these traps throughout our service area to monitor viral activity. They are moved if needed to sample in as many locations as possible. Mosquito collections (called pools) are sent to the Massachusetts State Public Health Laboratory Institute in Jamaica Plain. Notification of positive pools of mosquitoes is given to the CMMCP office and local Board of Health by MDPH. The next response will vary, according to MDPH guidelines, CMMCP recommendations and local BOH desires