Mosquitoes can be a nuisance and a health risk; they can transmit diseases like West Nile and Zika viruses. Fortunately, there are many effective ways to prevent mosquito bites and control mosquito populations.
Here are some tips:
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1. Eliminating Breeding Grounds
Mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water, so removing or treating water sources is crucial. Drain standing water and regularly empty or remove anything that can collect water including rain gutters, buckets, plastic covers, old tires, wading pools, toys, and garbage cans.
It’s also important to maintain water features. Empty and change the water in bird baths, fountains, and rain barrels at least once a week. Keep swimming pool water treated and circulating.
Address outdoor leaks by repairing dripping outdoor faucets, leaky plumbing, and areas where air conditioners drip condensation.
Fill holes and crevices. Fill in temporary pools of water on the ground with dirt. For tree holes or other outdoor crevices, fill with sand if they can’t be eliminated.
And mow your lawn regularly. While mosquitoes don’t lay eggs in tall grass, they rest and hide there. Keeping your lawn short can reduce their presence.
2. Personal Protection
There are several methods to help create a barrier between you and mosquitoes. Use EPA-registered insect propellants. When used as directed, these are safe and effective. Look for products containing one of the following active ingredients:
DEET: Effective and long-lasting, with concentrations of 10% to 35% being adequate for most situations. For children, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends no more than 30 percent DEET.
Picaridin (KBR 3023 or Icaridin): A good alternative to DEET, it’s nearly odorless and doesn’t damage plastics.
Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus (OLE) or Para-menthane-diol (PMD): A plant-derived ingredient recommended by the CDC. Do not use OLE or PMD on children under 3 years of age.
IR3535: Another effective synthetic ingredient.
2-Undecanone: A plant-derived ingredient.
When applying, always follow product label instructions. Apply sunscreen first, then insect repellent. Don’t spray repellent on skin covered by clothing. Spray repellent onto your hands first, then apply to your face, avoiding eyes and mouth.
3. Wear Protective Clothing
Mosquitoes can bite through tight clothing. Wearing loose-fitting, long-sleeved shirts and long pants can keep them out. Tuck shirts into your pants and pants into your socks (if you wear socks) to cover gaps. Wear light-colored clothing; it may make it easier to spot mosquitoes.
Treat your clothing and gear with Permethrin, an insecticide that kills or repels mosquitoes. However, it’s just for clothing and gear and not for skin. It retains its potency through multiple washings.
If sleeping outdoors or in areas with high mosquito populations, use a mosquito net, preferably one treated with insecticide.
Stay indoors during peak activity. Mosquitoes are most active at dusk and dawn, and planning outdoor activities outside of these times can reduce your exposure. For highly infested areas, head nets can offer extra protection.
4. Home and Area Protection
These methods aim to keep mosquitoes out of your living spaces.
Install and maintain screens: Ensure windows and doors have tight-fitting screens without tears or holes. Repair any damage promptly.
Run the AC: Running your air conditioner can deter mosquitoes from entering rooms. Your AC will likely be on anyway.
Consider mosquito repelling devices such as:
Thermacell repellers: These devices heat a repellent mat that releases allethrin (a synthetic copy of a natural repellent from pyrethrum flowers) to create a protection zone.
TIKI BiteFighter string lights: These outdoor string lights also release mosquito repellent.
Yard treatment sprays: Some plant-based sprays (e.g., those with lemongrass and cedar oils) can be used to treat your yard for up to several weeks.
Insecticide sprays/plug-ins: These can be used indoors to kill mosquitoes.
Yellow “bug” lights: While not repellents, these lights tend to attract fewer mosquitoes than ordinary lights.
By implementing a combination of these strategies, you can significantly reduce your risk of mosquito bites and create a more comfortable environment.
If you’re experiencing a pest problem in your Arizona home, it’s always best to consult with a professional pest control company for identification and effective treatment options.
Author: Fernando Torres is the owner of CimeX Control Pest Management. For more information call (480) 364-7499 or visit cimexcontrol.com.
