Mosquitoes have been around for over 30 million years, and in that time, these tiny flying insects have developed into one of the most dangerous creatures on earth. The bugs spread fatal diseases to humans as females take bloodmeals for their egg production. Additionally, mosquito bites can leave tiny, reddish welts on the skin. The reactions can be worse for allergic individuals. You can protect your family from mosquito-borne infections and itchy bites through active pest control in your North Carolina home.
Common Problems Mosquitoes Cause
With incessant buzzing and bites, mosquitoes can easily ruin your spring or summer outdoor experience. As the mosquito feeds, it releases its saliva which contains several enzymes. Your body’s reaction to these antigens leads to inflammation with itchy, reddish blots on your skin. However, the more severe consequence of the bug’s bites is the infections they spread in the process.
Mosquitoes are vectors of several dangerous infections. A bloodsucking female can feed on an infected person and transfer the pathogens to a healthy individual as they take another meal. Common diseases you can get from mosquitoes include:
- Zika Virus
- Malaria
- Dengue Fever
- West Nile Fever
- Chikungunya
- Yellow Fever
- La Crosse Encephalitis
The risk of transmission may depend on the geographical location. To stay safe, hire a pest control company to kill all mosquitoes on your property.
When Are Mosquitoes Most Active?
Mosquitoes prefer to live in warm, humid environments with easy access to standing pools of water where they can lay their eggs. As such, mosquitoes are most active during the warmer months between April and October. However, certain regions can have a mosquito season throughout the year.
Mosquitoes in North Carolina are typically active around dawn and dusk. The hours may vary depending on the season. Autumn and winter often have increased mosquito activity in the early evening. Temperature is also a big factor. Mosquitoes are sluggish in cooler weather and become more energetic when it’s warm out.
Four Things You Can Do To Avoid Mosquitoes
The best way to avoid mosquito-borne infections is to prevent the biting bugs from breeding in your home. Here are four ways to get rid of mosquitoes on your property:
1. Drain standing water.
These pests lay their eggs in standing water. Getting rid of stagnant pools on your property can control the larvae and pupa populations. Drain or refill any birdbaths or fountains in your backyard with fresh water every few days. Check for standing water in old tires, outdoor flower pots, tree holes, clogged drains, and gutters.
2. Wear light-colored clothing.
Mosquitoes are attracted to dark colors, so wearing lighter clothing will reduce your chances of attracting these pests to you. Light-colored clothing is also easier to see, which means you’ll have a better chance of spotting any mosquitoes that land on you before they can suck your blood.
3. Use natural repellants.
You can use different essential oils to get rid of mosquitoes. Prepare blends from lavender, lemongrass, and basil and spray them on your skin and outdoor areas. Plant herbs with scents that repel mosquitoes. Burning citronella candles while outdoors can also deter the bugs from flying in for a bite.
4. Spray down your property with insect repellant.
It’s a good idea to spray down the perimeter of your property with insect repellant. Pest control companies can plan regular spraying of your yard with larvacides to kill the mosquito larvae before they mature.
Do I Need Professional Mosquito Control?
The best way to get rid of mosquitoes from your property is to use professional pest exterminators. Our exterminators at Innovative Pest Solutions can identify habits attracting nasty bugs to your home. We also provide effective treatment protocols targeted at killing all mosquitoes.
Since mosquito season is often a year-round problem, we can also craft a tailored spraying program for your home every month to keep the bugs at bay. Contact us today to learn more about our mosquito control services.
