Even though mosquitoes are a year-round problem here in Florida, the rainy summer months are specifically problematic. To most of us, they are simply annoying. They fly and bite our heads and bodies while we are trying to enjoy our outdoor activities. If you are unfortunate enough to be on the receiving end of a mosquito bite, you will find yourself itching and scratching those bumped-up areas for days. However, mosquitoes can be far more than just an annoyance, they can be harmful.
Many leading entomologists consider mosquitoes to be one of the most dangerous insects in the world. They are primarily considered this because they are basically a massive carrier force for some of the most dangerous diseases known to man. Recent headlines warn of the highly publicized Zika virus. However, they are also known to carry such deadly diseases as, West Nile virus, encephalitis, malaria, yellow fever, and other infectious diseases that kill millions of people every year. In fact, the World Health Organization has reported that more than 50 percent of the world’s population is presently at risk from mosquito-borne diseases.
Mosquitoes spread disease is by injecting disease-causing agents directly into the human body. When a mosquito bites you, it is actually piercing your skin and injecting saliva into your body. This transmission of saliva can carry a variety of disease-causing agents and result in outbreaks like the Zika virus. The fact that mosquitoes can fly contributes to the rapid spread of diseases that are spread from person to person like Ebola.
There are many ways you can help to protect yourself and your family and to help reduce your chance of being infected by mosquitoes.
Standing Water
A key way to prevent mosquitoes around your home is to eliminate standing water around your property. Mosquitoes are attracted to stagnant water in untreated pools, bird baths, pet water bowls, buckets, and any item that can hold water. Because they lay their eggs in stagnant water, eliminating these areas will greatly help keep them from breeding.
Citronella Candles
Citronella is a natural mosquito repellant that can help keep them at bay. Placing these candles around gardens, picnic tables, and outdoor seating areas can establish a barrier.
Light Colors and Long Sleeves
Did you ever wonder why some many landscapers wear long sleeves? In addition to helping them stay cool, it can also help to block mosquitoes. Wearing long sleeve shirts that are light in color can help, and many experts contend that dark colors can actually attract mosquitos.
Professional Treatment
While the above tips can help you in the battle against the mosquito armies, the most effective way to eliminate the mosquito threat and to protect yourself and your family is to use a professional mosquito treatment service to spray the area around your home. Professional treatment can help eliminate mosquitoes where they live and breed and to help reduce the threat.