State investment will modernize the Delano Mosquito Abatement District's public health laboratory, strengthen disease prevention and help families safely enjoy the outdoors.

DELANO, Calif. (October 15, 2026)— State Senator Melissa Hurtado (D-Bakersfield) joined local officials Thursday to present $150,000 in state funding to the Delano Mosquito Abatement District to modernize its public health laboratory, strengthen disease surveillance and help protect Central Valley families from mosquito-borne illnesses.

The $150,000 investment secured by Senator Hurtado will support critical laboratory renovations and modernization, strengthening the district's ability to identify mosquito-borne diseases, monitor emerging threats and respond before they spread. Disease-carrying mosquitoes present a serious public health threat, making early detection and effective mosquito control essential.

“When the floods hit Allensworth, families were already facing so much uncertainty. Then came the mosquitoes. The Delano Mosquito Abatement District answered the call when that community needed help, and I haven’t forgotten it,” Senator Hurtado said. “Public safety isn't just about the threats we can see. It's also about the scientists in our laboratories and the people working behind the scenes to protect families from threats we may never see coming.”

The Delano Mosquito Abatement District serves approximately 477 square miles across northern Kern and southern Tulare counties, including Delano, McFarland, Earlimart and surrounding communities.

Through mosquito surveillance, laboratory testing and targeted control measures, the district monitors public health threats, including West Nile virus, St. Louis encephalitis virus and western equine encephalitis virus. The investment will help strengthen the scientific infrastructure behind these efforts, allowing local officials to make informed decisions about mosquito control and disease prevention.

“Securing $150,000 to modernize our district’s laboratory is a significant step toward protecting the health and well-being of our community,” Delano Mosquito Abatement District Manager Jay Thao said. “We are grateful to Senator Hurtado for recognizing the importance of this work and providing the resources needed to enhance mosquito monitoring, strengthen local surveillance and early detection of mosquito-borne diseases.”

For Central Valley Communities, effective mosquito control is an important part of protecting public health and maintaining quality of life. Strengthening local detection and response capabilities helps communities stay ahead of potential outbreaks rather than waiting until diseases become a greater threat.

“This $150,000 investment is about detecting disease earlier, responding faster and preventing illness before it strikes. The Central Valley shouldn't have to play catch-up when it comes to public health. We can lead, and that work starts right here in Delano,” Hurtado continued.

Thursday's ceremonial check presentation brought together Senator Hurtado, District Manager Jay Thao, Delano Vice Mayor and District Board President Mario Nunez Jr., and McFarland Vice Mayor and District Board Vice President Ricardo Cano.

MEDIA READY DIGITAL ASSETS

Photos and Videos from today’s press conference — LINKED HERE

Senator Melissa Hurtado is Chair of Senate Budget Subcommittee #4 on State Administration and General Government and currently represents the 16th Senate District in the California Legislature, which includes portions of Fresno, Tulare, Kings and Kern Counties.

###