Standing water collected in buckets, gutters, old tires, bird baths or just in pools around your home are all breeding grounds for mosquitoes to lay their eggs. Because many areas have had heavier rainfalls than usual, the mosquito population has greatly increased. Besides being annoying pests that bite and cause itching, mosquitoes can carry deadly diseases.
Because this summer has been wetter-than-usual, mosquitoes have been able to breed and launch mosquito-borne disease. The number of West Nile Virus cases has increased greatly this summer, and as of July 21, 33 states have reported cases. Although not always deadly, West Nile Virus can be extremely dangerous to those with low immune systems.
What to do?
There are 3 easy things you can do to prevent mosquito breeding and protect yourself from disease.
Eliminate standing water to prevent mosquito infestations, breeding and spreading of diseases.
Use insect repellent with DEET, picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus.
Limit exposure when mosquitoes are most active, during dawn and dusk, by staying inside or wearing pants and long-sleeves.
Source: Parjana