122 - The AMCA’s NEW Virtual Training Program on Integrated Mosquito Management

In October 2023, the AMCA launched their virtual training program on Best Practices for Integrated Mosquito Management. The program was funded by the CDC and leveraged the expertise of 24 different instructors located throughout the U.S., Puerto Rico, and Australia. The program contains 13 modules on different topics related to science-based mosquito control, and after successfully completing each module, a student may choose to take a 100-question, comprehensive exam to earn a certificate they can leverage to advance their careers. After completing all readings, lectures, and evaluations, a learner will understand: fundamentals of mosquito biology and ecology necessary to locate and control immature and adult mosquitoes; the role mosquitoes play in disease transmission and the importance of using an integrated approach to protect people from these pests; the five principles of integrated mosquito management including: community engagement, collecting and using data, reducing potential larval habitat, using all control methods available and reasonable, and regularly evaluating the efficacy of the program; how to perform the different components of integrated mosquito management; and how to access additional information needed. This talk will discuss the history and creation, highlight the topics one can expect to learn, and suggest ways that both individuals and mosquito control organizations can use this program.