Do you remember that nice warm patch of weather we had in March? During that time, we had sightings of mosquitoes and swarms in our area. Fortunately, we had another cold snap and those swarms disappeared. But they are an indication of what is to come.

The mild winter we just had did little to reduce mosquitoes here in Georgia, and we are looking at a bumper crop this spring. So, it is even more important to take precautions when it comes to preventing mosquito bites this year. With the threat of Zika and West Nile on the mind of our Georgia Department of Health, it should also be on our minds as well. While it is uncertain where, when, or if, an outbreak will happen, it never hurts to take precautions.

Personal Protection

There are some things you can do personally to protect yourself from mosquito bites. These require a little thought and some effort to put into practice.

• Mosquito repellent is the number one way to prevent bites. The most effective repellents are the ones that have 100% DEET. If you don’t prefer to put chemicals on your skin, consider putting it on your clothing, or use a repellent with oil of lemon eucalyptus.
• Wear long sleeves and pants if you’re able. This will give those mosquitoes less real estate to attack. But, be aware that mosquitoes can bite through some materials.
• If you are very concerned about mosquito bites or need to go into a marshy area where there is an abundance of mosquitoes, consider wearing clothing that has netting.
• Avoid going out in the morning or evening when mosquitoes are most active.
• Avoid being outside while consuming alcohol. Studies have shown a correlation between alcohol consumption and attractiveness to mosquitoes.
• Be aware that an increase in body heat, sweat, and CO2 production will make you more attractive to mosquitoes.

Property Protection

• Get rid of the zapper. Studies have shown that bug zappers are great at drawing bugs in, but do very little to kill female (biting) mosquitoes.
• Make sure all your screens are in good working order.
• If you’ll be out on the deck or near the pool, consider using a fan to create a breeze. This can deter mosquitoes.
• Reduce vegetation in your yard that collects water on their leaves, and address any areas of standing water in your yard.
• Get mosquito service from a professional. The Aedes mosquitoes, which are the primary vectors for mosquito-borne diseases, do not generally travel more than 500 meters in their entire life. That means the mosquitoes that bite you on your property came from your property, or somewhere near your property. Mosquito service kills adult mosquitoes hiding on your property and eggs that are hidden in your yard. It also addresses areas that are ideal for mosquito breeding.

If you are in our Georgia service area, and you need assistance protecting your property from mosquitoes, Active Pest Control can help. When mosquitoes and mosquito eggs are all gone, it’s Active Pest Control.