Evaluating Potential Mosquito Breeding Sites on a University Campus

In recent decades, mosquito-borne diseases (MBDs) such as Zika, chikungunya, malaria, and dengue have spread to more urban areas previously free of such diseases. Globalization has increased the infection potential for diseases and their vectors, placing tropical tourist destinations, such as Hawai‘i, at risk for MBD epidemics. A cross-sectional study was conducted on the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa campus to assess potential mosquito breeding sites. The campus was stratified by land use designation and randomly sampled. Residential areas had the highest potential for breeding sites with high numbers of discarded plastic food and beverage containers. Recommended prevention strategies to curb littering in the residential area include awareness campaigns and encouraging collaboration between maintenance authorities to enhance oversight. This study highlights the importance of individual awareness and prevention of environment modifications that could contribute to the development of mosquito breeding sites.