USF Researchers Develop 98%-Accurate AI Mosquito Trap as Florida Dengue Cases Reach 524
Updated
Updated · Fox News · Nov 15
USF Researchers Develop 98%-Accurate AI Mosquito Trap as Florida Dengue Cases Reach 524
3 articles · Updated · Fox News · Nov 15
Summary
Florida has reported 524 locally acquired dengue cases through Oct. 31, including 407 in Hillsborough County, as USF researchers unveil an AI mosquito trap aimed at speeding detection of dangerous species.
The Digitomy system uses cameras, AI and cloud computing to identify captured mosquitoes the same day—far faster than the two to three days traditional microscope-based surveillance can take.
Laboratory tests showed more than 98% accuracy, and the trap can also flag sex and recent blood feeding, helping officials focus on female Aedes aegypti mosquitoes that spread dengue.
Hillsborough County extended its local emergency through Nov. 19 and increased aerial and ground spraying while preparing field validation of the trap during its largest recorded dengue outbreak.
USF's startup is seeking to license the technology to established trap makers, positioning it as an early-warning tool rather than a replacement for lab tests confirming dengue infection.