There are really only two reasons to control mosquitoes; to avoid nuisance biting, and to preclude the spread of mosquito-borne disease. Everyone recognizes that mosquitoes can be a real nuisance, but most people do not realize the magnitude of the health threat that they represent. Some of the world’s most dreaded diseases are known to be carried and transmitted by mosquitoes. Many countries around the world are ravaged yearly by malaria, yellow fever, and mosquito- borne diseases, but dengue has recently crossed the Mexican border into Texas and is now seen as a serious public health threat.

Mosquito-borne encephalitis in the U.S. is prevalent in several forms and is geographically wide spread. In Florida, the Eastern Equine and St. Louis viral strains were the most common before the invasion of West Nile Virus in 2002.

Did you know that the mosquito can transmit the parasite that causes heartworm in dogs? By having an effective Mosquito control plan, you can help reduce the amount of these pesky insects in your area.

One of the easiest things to do is to eliminate standing water. This is a mosquito’s breeding ground! Even things like kids sandboxes hold water. Try drilling some tiny holes in the bottom of the sandbox so the water drains through. Turn over tarps that hold water that might be covering up firewood piles as well! Fill in any low spots in your lawn that hold water after a rain. Lastly, have your lawn aerated yearly! By having tiny holes punched in your lawn, it allows absorption of water and other beneficial nutrients to enter the soil.

Lastly, call a specialist and have your lawn, trees and shrubs treated. There are many options available on the market that will kill mosquitos. There are also organic options as well, although they are a bit more pricy. One good thing about insecticides is most will not only kill mosquitos, but also kill fleas, ticks, ants and spiders too!