County Gardeners Extension Express
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Mosquito Control Around the Home
As we move into warmer temperatures and find ourselves outside more often now that winter has mostly subsided, we are going to start encountering mosquitoes much more often, unfortunately. Below are a few simple steps that you can take to help reduce the risk of being bitten and to help possibly reduce the population of mosquitoes around the home.
- Remove any standing water around your home to reduce mosquito breeding. In areas where standing water is unavoidable, the use of “Bti Dunks” (Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis strain) can be helpful and safe for pets and other animals.
- Always wear an insect repellant containing an EPA-registered active ingredient, such as DEET, when outdoors. Be sure to use a product that is labeled for skin use and not a clothing use as increased active ingredient concentrations can be harmful and not for on-the-skin use.
- If you are allergic to DEET, or would prefer to use a different product, there is an alternative containing the active ingredient Picaridin that is also effective for the deterrence of mosquitos and other disease-carrying insects.
- Use of Thermacell or other insect-repellent devices can be beneficial in certain instances in small areas
- Wear loose-fitting long-sleeved tops and long pants.
- Avoid being outdoors during the early morning and early evening when mosquitoes are most active when possible
For more information about mosquito-borne illnesses and how to protect yourself, visit the Mississippi State Department of Health website at HealthyMS.com/westnile
Extension publication P3826 “Integrated Mosquito Management” can help you implement a plan to reduce mosquitoes while using minimal pesticides.
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Mosquito Control Around the Home