Trump Orders Mosquito and Tick Eradication in D.C.

1 min read

President Donald Trump has issued an executive order aimed at reducing the population of disease-carrying ticks and mosquitoes in Washington, D.C., as part of his administration’s efforts to improve public health and outdoor safety. The initiative, titled ‘Eliminating Disease-Carrying Pests And Restoring Enjoyment Of The Great Outdoors,’ was announced as part of the D.C. Safe and Beautiful Task Force, established in March 2025.

Targeting Invasive Species

The order directs federal agencies, including the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), to develop a D.C.-specific campaign within 60 days. The goal is to reduce invasive mosquito populations by 90% and tick populations by 50% by 2028. The initiative emphasizes non-chemical and technology-based approaches to eliminate these pests while protecting beneficial insects, native plants, and animals.

Technology-Based Solutions

As part of the effort, the order highlights the use of male mosquitoes infected with a bacterium that sterilizes them, a method introduced by Bee Safe Mosquito Control. This technique has already been deployed in the D.C. area, with half a million sterilized mosquitoes released this summer to curb breeding. The administration is exploring additional pest control methods that align with the initiative’s focus on sustainable and non-toxic solutions.

Research and Disease Prevention

The order also directs HHS to develop research programs focused on rapid diagnostics, preventive treatments, and therapies for diseases such as Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, babesiosis, alpha-gal syndrome, West Nile virus, Zika, chikungunya, and dengue fever. Dengue fever, in particular, has been reported in Florida, with 179 cases confirmed in three Gulf Coast counties.

Alpha-Gal Syndrome Focus

Additionally, the order mandates that the Agriculture Department and HHS explore potential labeling requirements for food and drug products containing significant amounts of alpha-galactose, which is linked to alpha-gal syndrome, a tick-borne allergy.

Source: Daily Caller

Written by

Connor Davis