Mosquitos
(Latest information from the CDC)
Late spring & early summer rains along with warmer temperatures are just what we need to keep our garden growing green, but these conditions are also perfect for a mosquito hatch.
Folks can do many things to try and reduce mosquito populations around their property, however, the Center for Disease Control recommends the following as the best mosquito bite prevention methods:
- Wear insect repellent: Yes! It is safe. When used as directed, insect repellent is the BEST way to protect yourself from mosquito bites—even children and pregnant women should protect themselves. Higher percentages of active ingredient provide longer lasting protection.
- a. DEET: Products containing DEET include Cutter, OFF, Skintastic.
- b. Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin): Products containing picaridin include Cutter Advanced, Skin So Soft Bug Guard Plus, and Autan outside the United States).
- c. Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or PMD: Repel contains OLE.
- d. IR3535: Products containing IR3535 include Skin So Soft Bug Guard plus Expedition and SkinSmart.
- Cover up: When weather permits, wear long-sleeved shirts and pants.
- Keep mosquitoes outside: Use air conditioning or make sure that you repair and use window/door screens.
The North Austin M.U.D. #1 places Mosquito Dunks in standing water areas on a monthly basis during the wet season. These Dunks contain Bacillus genus, a microscopic organism that kills a reasonable percent of mosquito larvae before it emerges into an adult. These Dunks last at least 30 days and become active when wet, then go dormant when dry and activate when it rains again.
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