From the threat of mosquito-borne diseases at the Summer Olympics in Rio to the first confirmed Zika virus transmissions in the United States, news about mosquitoes has left people with questions and concerns.
Milberger Pest Control wants to help answer your questions about mosquitoes. What potential threats do they pose? What steps you can take to prevent mosquito bites as you enjoy the great outdoors around Kansas City, Lee’s Summit, and Blue Springs this summer?
Q: Why are mosquitoes considered a dangerous pest?
A: Mosquitoes are vectors of numerous diseases, including Zika, West Nile virus, malaria, dengue, and equine encephalitis (EEE). There have been no mosquito-transmitted cases of Zika in California.
Mosquitoes can breed in as little as a half-inch of standing water. This reinforces the importance of checking your property regularly for containers that could be collecting water and providing a place for mosquitoes to breed.
Q: Are mosquitoes more prevalent during a specific season?
A: Mosquitoes are considered one of summer’s most active pests, but they also can thrive in the fall and remain active as long as the temperature is above 60 degrees.
Tips to Help Prevent Mosquito Bites
- Eliminate or reduce mosquito-breeding sites around the home – birdbaths, flowerpots, grill covers, children’s toys and sandboxes, baby pools, unopened swimming pools, tires, and other objects where water can collect
- Remove unneeded vegetation or trash from around any source of standing water that cannot be changed, dumped, or removed
- Screen windows, doors, and other openings with fine mesh (18×18 strands per inch or finer), sealing around all screen edges and keeping doors and windows shut to prevent entry
- Minimize outside activity between dusk and dawn, when mosquitoes are most active, but also take proactive measures during the day to protect against daytime biters, like the Asian tiger mosquito
- When outdoors, wear long-sleeve shirts, long pants, socks, and shoes
- Use an insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon-eucalyptus on exposed skin whenever outdoors
For other pest concerns, call in MO – (816) 761-1313 or KS – (913) 384-6760 or drop us an email at info@milbergerpestcontrol.com.