Why Mosquito Protecting Matters
Mosquitoes are large flying insects that don't seem too intimidating from afar. Unlike wasps and hornets, Mosquitoes have no stingers or venom. What they do have are long proboscises, and the females use them to suck human and animal blood. Although you probably can't feel a mosquito bite you, the aftermath is hard to miss.
A mosquito bite usually results in an itchy welt that takes days to disappear. In some cases, excessive scratching and an introduction of bacteria cause the bite to develop an infection. You could need medical attention to prevent further complications. Far worse than a secondary infection is a potential for a serious disease. Mosquitoes spread various diseases to humans, many of which have caused fatalities.
Because of this, mosquitoes are one of the most hazardous pests on the planet. Yellow fever, Zika, and West Nile virus are only some of the diseases that can spread by mosquito bites. If an elderly person or young child experiences a bite from an infected mosquito, there's a significant health risk.
Preventing Mosquito Bites In Wilmington, NC
While no one is immune to a mosquito bite, some people are less likely to be bit than others. Typically, mosquitoes seek out pregnant women, people with Type O blood, and individuals with alcohol in their blood.
Of course, there's not much you can do about your blood type or your pregnancy status. Preventing mosquitoes from finding you is extremely difficult to do unless you cover yourself in a potent bug spray. However, there are a few measures you can take to deter mosquitoes.
For one, dress in light-colored clothing. You should also dress in long sleeves and long pants, avoiding spandex material. Because a mosquito's proboscis is so thin, it can fit through certain fabrics and stitches. If possible, avoid being outdoors at dawn and dusk.
Keeping Mosquitoes Away From Your Property
It's easier to keep mosquitoes away from your property than it is to keep mosquitoes away from you. Take a walk around your yard and look for things that might attract mosquitoes. To breed, female mosquitoes lay eggs in or near water. Check your property for sources of standing water, such as small ponds, puddles, and junk piles. If you see any standing water in pots or containers, dump it out.
As you encounter standing water, think of ways to make it disappear. For example, a puddle from a leaky hose can be fixed by repairing the hose or faucet. A puddle near a gutter may just need better drainage.
Mosquito prevention also requires you to keep vegetation to a minimum. If you let your bushes grow out of control or have thick grasses in your yard, mosquitoes will find them appealing. By performing regular yard maintenance and keeping vegetation to a minimum, you may be able to deter mosquitoes.
As you do your gardening, keep in mind that some plants deter mosquitoes. Citronella, lemongrass, and basil are all effective at preventing these pests. They won't eliminate mosquitoes, but these plants will help.
Who To Call For Mosquito Prevention
The best way to keep mosquito populations low on your property is with professional assistance. If you rely on us at Bug-N-A-Rug Exterminators for ongoing mosquito prevention, you don't need to worry about batting away mosquitoes every time you go outside. Call us to learn more or use our online form for a no-obligation inspection.
