How To Reduce Mosquito Bites!!!

Reduce the Risk of Mosquito Bites this Summer

West Nile virus, other disease organisms, and parasites are carried by mosquitoes and transferred to humans and animals.

The Georgia Department of Public Health has recently confirmed the year’s first human case of West Nile virus in the state.  Health officials say the adult patient recovered without hospitalization after being infected in May.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Georgia had 99 cases of West Nile virus in 2012- including six that were fatal.

Health officials are concerned the number of West Nile virus cases may increase this season due to abundant amounts of rainfall and urge Georgians to take precautions to protect themselves against mosquito bites.

Homeowner Awareness- There are peak times when mosquitoes are most active and when the outdoors should be avoided.  Stay indoors during dawn, dusk and early evening when mosquitoes are more likely to be a nuisance.  Wear light-colored, loose - fitting clothing, plus long-sleeved shirts and pants for extra protection.

Mosquito Repellents- Topical repellents containing DEET can be effective against mosquitoes, biting flies, chiggers, fleas, and ticks.  Physicians recommend that a formulation of no more than 10% DEET be used on children, but formulations of over 30% can be used in areas of high disease incidence if label directions are followed. Researchers advise adults to limit the use of repellents containing concentrations of more than 50% DEET.

Non-topical chemical repellents such as candles and torches are found to be ineffective in producing enough vapors to repel mosquitoes due to air movement.

Reduce Breeding Sites- Most of the mosquitoes in Georgia are Container Breeding Mosquitoes, meaning they breed in any object that is capable of holding any amount of water for 7 days or more.  Homeowners can reduce Mosquito breeding sites by empting bird baths and planters, cleaning out gutters, trimming overgrown bushes, removing debris, toys and any item that has a divot that is capable of holding water. 

Treatments- Mosquito Reduction Services are very effective in reducing the amount of mosquitoes in your yard when properly preformed.  Treatments should only be performed by a properly licensed mosquito management professional.  He or she will have the experience and training to properly design a reduction plan to help protect you and your family.

For more information on Mosquito Reduction please visit our website at www.VisionPMP.com