Mosquito infestations are a common problem during the summer months. Mosquitoes can make spending time outside almost miserable. Not only is their bite itchy and bothersome, but they can be the carriers of some serious diseases. You want to prevent mosquito infestations if it is at all possible. Pied Piper Services would like to talk about some ways you can control mosquito infestations and the risks that come with mosquito bites.
Mosquito Prevention in Yard
There are many steps you can take to ensure you won’t have a mosquito infestation in your yard. The biggest thing you want to be aware of are places that mosquitoes can lay their eggs. They lay their eggs anywhere that has stagnant water or water that is standing still without moving. Some common places that water accumulates are:
• Clogged Gutters– If your gutters are filled with debris, it won’t allow the water to flow freely from them and could pool up. This is an ideal place for mosquitoes to lay their eggs.
• Bird Baths– If you have a bird bath, you want to make sure you change the water frequently. You can also switch it out for a bird bath that has some sort of fountain that keeps the water constantly moving.
• Debris in your yard– If you have debris in your yard such as; old tires, tarps, or even kids toys that are able to collect water, you will want to check them for any standing water.
• Pet Water Troughs- Change the water frequently in your pet’s water dish. Your pet will benefit from this as well as control the risk of mosquitoes laying eggs in it.
Dangers & Effects of Mosquito Bites
Since mosquitoes feed on blood, they carry diseases. Some diseases can be quite serious. Malaria and West Nile Virus are some of the diseases mosquitoes are known for. The disease that is new and gaining a lot of attention is the Zika Virus. Oklahoma made a list of the top 30 cities that are at the highest risk of being infected with the Zika Virus and Oklahoma City came in at #23. Several cities in Texas were high up on the list. Dallas came in at # 18, Houston at #7, and Brownsville at #4. Some of the signs and symptoms of the Zika Virus are rash, fever, joint pain, and headaches. If you are pregnant, the Zika Virus is more serious since it can be passed to the fetus during pregnancy and can result in a birth defect called Microcephaly. This can cause the baby’s head to be much smaller than it should be.
Health Officials Warn to Avoid Mosquito Bites
To avoid mosquito bites you should:
• Use insect repellent when outside.
• Wear long sleeved shirts and long pants if weather permits it.
• Avoid the outdoors at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.
• Check windows and doors for any cracks or tears in screens where mosquitoes can gain entry into your home.
If you have a mosquito problem you can’t seem to get under control, it is time to contact Pied Piper Services. They have the knowledge and tools necessary to control your mosquito problem. Call today!