WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT MOSQUITOS

Helpful Hints

  • Four Stages (eggs, larvae, pupae, and adults)
  • From eggs to biting mosquitoes – 5 to 10 days
  • Mosquito adult life span – 1 to 4 weeks
  • Mosquitoes lay eggs in stagnant water
  • 84 known species in Texas
  • West Nile Virus is here to stay (like the flu season)
  • 652 human cases in Texas last year
  • 2477 human cases in Colorado last year (highest in nation)
  • Best control – eliminate breeding grounds!
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    PROTECTING YOURSELF AGAINST WEST NILE VIRUS

    The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends the following action to protect against West Nile Virus:

  • When going outdoors, apply insect repellant containing DEET to bare skin and clothing. Products containing 10% or less DEET are the most appropriate for children 2-12 years
  • Wear loose-fitting clothing that covers legs and arms while in areas where mosquitoes are most likely to be present
  • Avoid outdoor activities between dusk and dawn; this is when mosquitoes are most active
  • Ensure window and door screens are in good repair to limit mosquito access to living spaces
  • Clean out clogged rain gutters to avoid collecting water where mosquitoes can lay eggs
  • At least twice per week, empty water from flower pots, pet foods, water dishes, birdbaths, swimming pool covers, buckets, cans, or any container that would hold water, which is a potential source for breeding grounds
  • LET’S PROTECT OUR PROPERTY AND OURSELVES TO AVOID SPRAYING CHEMICALS INTO THE ENVIRONMENT

     

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