It’s a known fact: mosquitos can spread illnesses – some, much more serious than others. Worldwide, there are over 20 mosquito-borne illnesses, making mosquitos the world’s deadliest animal. It’s estimated that over one million people around the world die each year from mosquito illnesses. Fortunately, we don’t have as many of those mosquito-borne illnesses here in South Florida, but we have enough to cause problems and warrant concern.
What Diseases Do Mosquitos Cause?
You may be already familiar with the mosquito-borne illnesses found in Florida. They include West Nile virus, the Zika virus, Eastern equine encephalitis, and St. Louis encephalitis. Last year alone, Florida reported 29 cases of West Nile, throughout the state. There are many steps you can take towards avoiding mosquito illnesses. It begins with prevention measures around your property.
Steps to Prevent a Mosquito Illness
Look around your yard or property. There’s a lot you can do to keep mosquitos at bay. For starters, drain or cover any standing water, which is where mosquitos lay their eggs. Even the smallest water reservoir is a prime breeding ground. Keep an eye on the following:
- Clogged gutters
- Bird baths
- Wading/kiddie pools
- Pots/saucers
- Toys
- Dishes/pet water bowls
- Fountains
- Buckets
- Bromeliad plants which store water in their leaves or rosettes
By the way, there are some natural ingredients, including cinnamon and vinegar that you can add to your fountain to keep mosquitos away. If the water in your swimming pool has been treated with chlorine or is constantly circulating, there’s no need to drain your pool.
Your Landscape and Lighting Play a Role
Mosquitos love to hang out in tall grass, shrubbery, bushes, and foliage. This means you need to regularly trim your bushes and trees and mow your lawn, all of which will help keep down mosquito activity. You can also make natural repellants, such as mosquito-repelling plants, a part of your landscape. Think citronella, lavender, peppermint, marigolds, catnip, and basil. You can also replace your outdoor lights with “yellow” bug lights. We offer many LED landscaping options. Don’t forget to cover doorways and windows with screens.
Protect Yourself from Mosquito Bites
When outside, you can protect yourself against illnesses from mosquito bites in a number of ways. It helps to wear lighter-colored, looser clothing. Some research suggests that wearing dark-colored clothing can put you on a mosquito’s radar. But we highly suggested getting the entire area treated with a proven and effective mosquito misting system.
Call Us and Experience the SWAT Difference
Call the best mosquito-control company in South Florida – SWAT Mosquito Systems®️. We’ll be more than happy to come out and discuss your mosquito battle and how we can help you and your family avoid mosquito bites and illnesses. We’re the largest and most respected mosquito control company in Florida. Call us today at 1-866-900-7928 for your free estimate.