Adult & Larval Mosquito Surveillance
There are many different species of mosquitoes in our area. Some, more so than others, are focused on for the transmission of diseases such as West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) to people. The larvae of mosquitoes need standing water in order to develop.
Habitats
Certain types of mosquitoes utilize certain habitats and are very specific to those habitats in most instances. Some develop in swampy areas and areas that flood after heavy rainfall while others prefer containerized habitats such as buckets, tires, birdbaths, clogged gutters, catch basins, unmaintained swimming pools, etc.
Because the aquatic portion of the life cycle of mosquitoes can be relatively short, about two weeks, depending on the species, to a month or longer in some species, and as little as one week in others, it is very important to be aware of these habitats around the home.
Prevention
Getting rid of containers such as tires, unclogging gutters, turning over flower pots, buckets, children's wading pools, and changing the water in bird baths on a weekly basis are just some of the things that can be done to minimize mosquito habitat around the home. It is also important to get your neighbors and communities involved in these practices as everyone can and should be watching for these things around their homes and in their communities.
Surveillance Purpose
Larval surveillance is done to determine different species of mosquitoes that are developing in an area. Adult surveillance is done using special traps designed to sample mosquito populations to determine not only what species are most active in feeding, but also for the purpose of testing for various diseases that they may be carrying.
Personal Protective Measures
Personal protective measures should be used while active outdoors. Proper clothing such as light-colored clothing, long sleeves and long pants should be worn. Choosing a good insect repellent and staying away from areas where mosquitoes tend to bite at the times of the day when they are most active, dusk and dawn, are other ways of protecting yourself and your family.
