Health Advisory

DOH-Martin Issues Mosquito-Borne Illness Advisory

October 1, 2026 1 min read
The advisory is in response to several sentinel chickens testing positive for West Nile virus.
Illustration of a mosquito inside of an orange target
For media inquiries: Renay Rouse • Renay.Rouse@FLHealth.gov • 772-631-6008

Martin County, Fla. — The Florida Department of Health in Martin County (DOH-Martin) is informing residents that several sentinel chickens have tested positive for West Nile virus. DOH-Martin and Martin County Mosquito Control are coordinating surveillance and prevention efforts through enhanced monitoring for mosquitoes and diseases as well as targeted mosquito treatment to reduce the risk of disease transmission.

DOH-Martin reminds the community to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes by taking these basic precautions.

The Department continues to conduct statewide surveillance for mosquito-borne illnesses, including West Nile virus infections, Eastern equine encephalitis, St. Louis encephalitis, malaria, chikungunya, and dengue. Residents of Florida are encouraged to report dead birds to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.