Battling the world's most deadly animal: ESA's Public Health Entomology Certificate

The Public Health Entomology (PHE) Certificate was developed by the Entomological Society of America and the American Mosquito Control Association. The PHE certificate enhances the credibility and expertise of mosquito and vector control professionals. The rise of diseases such as malaria, dengue, and West Nile underscores the need for certified professionals. In 2023, the U.S. reported its first local malaria cases in over 20 years, while California experienced its first locally transmitted dengue cases.  

Michael DuBose has worked with the Orange County Mosquito and Vector Control District (OCMVCD) since 2000, building a 24-year career in public health and vector control. In 2021, he applied for the PHE Exam. After 150 hours of study, he passed the rigorous test and earned the certificate in January 2023. He became the 40th recipient in the U.S. and the 6th in California. Michael coordinated a successful Vector Reduction Program with over 40 vector management plans emphasizing landowners’ shared responsibility for mosquito control. 

Michael’s leadership earned him Employee of the Year in 2023. The Vector Reduction Program is now a key tool in OCMVCD’s Integrated Vector Management (IVM) strategy, alongside other emerging and innovative programs like unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and the sterile insect technique (SIT). This presentation will explore Michael’s journey with the PHE exam, the certificate’s value, and its impact on battling the world’s deadliest animal.