A recent report by the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) states that mosquitoes are becoming an increasing problem across the United States. In fact, the online study revealed a 9.4% increase in reports of mosquito activity from April to May 2019 alone.
Known as vector pests, Mosquitoes can be problematic due to their ability to carry diseases such as West Nile and Zika viruses.
Thankfully, the experts at Terminix Service, Inc. are here to help with prevention tips and a mosquito activity forecast to check before venturing out.
“Mosquitoes are inevitable this time of year and we encourage everyone to be proactive in protecting themselves from mosquito-borne illness by reducing the mosquito population in their yard,” shares Kevin Hathorne, technical director of Terminix Service, Inc. “In addition to minimizing standing water around your home, it’s important to get your yard professionally treated throughout the summer.”
Hathorne says steps to reducing mosquitoes include:
- Disposing of old tires, buckets, drums, bottles or any water holding containers.
- Cleaning debris from rain gutters, ditches, culverts, and outdoor drains so water can flow properly.
- Ensuring swimming pools and ornamental ponds are properly maintained and that water in birdbaths, plant pots or drip trays is emptied and replaced after every rainfall.
- Checking around outdoor faucets, air conditioner units, and repair leaks or puddles.
- Filling in tree holes and hollow stumps that hold water with sand or concrete.
- Keeping grass cut and shrubs well trimmed where adult mosquitoes may rest.
- Sealing out mosquitoes by ensuring windows and door screens are in good condition.
- Wearing light-colored clothing, long sleeve shirts, and long pants when possible.
- Using personal insect repellents that contain at least 20% DEET.
While Terminix cannot guarantee customers will not get bitten by mosquitoes or contract a mosquito-borne illness, by significantly reducing the mosquito population in a given area, everyone can reduce the chances of bites occurring.