Five No-Sweat Mosquito Control Tips For Austin Property Owners

Though they measure only approximately 1/8 to 3/8 inch long, these tiny pests buzz around from early in the morning to late in the evening, making them difficult to see even when there are many of them. And though small in size, mosquitoes are one of the deadliest animals in the world due to the diseases they transmit. With mosquito season on the horizon, here are a few things to consider when spending time outside in Austin:

What Attracts Mosquitoes?

Absolutely no one is immune to the scratchy, unpleasant bites of a mosquito. Female mosquitoes are hunting for blood, as they need it in order to lay their eggs. Add the fact that they breed constantly and you have one itchy summer. That said, there are certain factors that make certain people more attractive to their scratchy bites, and the list is complex:

• Blood type (with type O being the most enticing)

• Lactic acid buildup from exercise

• Bacteria on the skin

• Drinking alcohol

• Being pregnant

At the end of the day, genetics are estimated to account for 85% of the reasons for those who attract mosquitoes and those who don’t, so it’s suggested that you try your best to prevent their attraction with some of the following tips. 

The Dangers of Mosquitoes

Mosquitoes are not just a nuisance because of the itchy bites they cause, but they are also one of the deadliest animals in the world because of the diseases that they are known to spread. Here are some facts to keep in mind when you think it’s just a tiny mosquito bite:

• When a mosquito feeds off of something diseased, they can then transmit those same pathogens to you, your family, and your family.

• As per the World Health Organization (WHO), mosquitoes are responsible for over one million deaths per year, due to the diseases and viruses they spread.

• As it pertains to the United States, mosquitoes are carriers for mostly West Nile virus and Eastern equine encephalitis. Some symptoms of West

• Nile virus are sore throat, nausea, vomiting, swollen glands, and abdominal pain. Many people also contract WNV and may never know that they’ve had it due to a lack of symptoms. Eastern Equine Encephalitis is detected by joint pain, chills, and fever, which may last approximately two weeks. If you suspect that you might have either of these infections, please seek medical care immediately.

• Though less common in the U.S., the chikungunya disease has been appearing increasingly in the Caribbean, giving American travelers pause.

Five Austin Mosquito Control Tips 

Mosquitoes may seemingly be everywhere, but there are absolutely ways to limit exposure to them and the irritations they spread. Here are five tips that may keep mosquitoes off of your Austin property and off of your skin:

1. Empty areas of stale water regularly. Spots such as birdbaths, flowerpots, and pool covers are common areas for mosquitoes to congregate. Not allowing water to become stale will take away the mosquitoes' main location from laying their eggs, so it’s a good start.

2. Try minimizing time spent outdoors at dusk and dawn, as that is when mosquitoes are most prevalent in Austin.

3. Insect repellent containing an EPA-registered active ingredient (such as DEET) can be invaluable. Citronella candles have also been known to deter mosquitoes at backyard BBQs and some are even decorative!

4. Try wearing light-colored clothing or long clothes to deter mosquitoes and keep them off of your skin.

5. Enlist help from the professionals at Roberts Termite & Pest Control.

The most effective and safest way to keep mosquito populations low on your property is with professional assistance from Roberts Termite & Pest Control. Talk to the team of professionals today for an assessment and plan of action. 

Tags: mosquito control | mosquito infestation | mosquito elimination |