Mosquitoes are very common on every continent, except Antarctica. There are 3,500 known types of mosquitoes worldwide. Not all of them bite or spread disease, and among the biting variety, it's only the females that do the bloodsucking. The type of mosquito that spreads the disease is referred to as a vector. This term is not unique to mosquitoes but rather is used to describe any animal or insect that spreads pathogens.
Attract And Reduce
Come here, come here, go away, go away. Humans unknowingly attract mosquitoes, just by being us. They come buzzing by in response to our invitation, and we tell them to get lost. It must be tough to be a mosquito. Here are some things that attract them:
- Type O blood is the mosquito's absolute favorite blood type, with type A coming in second place.
- Pregnant women are sadly a target for mosquito bites as if they don't have enough to deal with.
- Elevated temperatures seem to draw mosquitoes to you. It can be from a fever or because you have been exercising. For some people it's genetics, they just run a bit warmer.
- Black, dark blue or red clothing will attract mosquitoes.
- One study even showed that mosquitoes are attracted to people who have been drinking beer.
Now that you know what attracts them, here are a few ways to reduce that attraction:
- Stay away from or remove stagnant water from around your property, this includes flower pots and rain gutters.
- Ensure screens are in place and do not leave doors open. Check for rips and tears in screen material as well as bent or damaged frames.
- Burn citronella torches and candles.
- Clear away leaf mold or any type of damp decaying plant matter.
- Hedges, shrubs, and grass should be trimmed regularly.
- Do not leave animals’ watering bowls out overnight.
Avoid Getting Bit
If you are at the lake, on a hike, or sitting on your deck, you will want to take steps to prevent getting bit by mosquitoes. Make sure to protect yourself by using these tips:
- Use a repellent. The EPA suggests that you use repellents with DEET, Picaridin, IR3535, and oil of lemon eucalyptus.
- Wear light colored clothing, preferably loose-fitting and long-sleeved.
- Avoid being outside during dusk.
- Stay away from ponds and bogs.
If you do get bit, try not to scratch, especially if you are in an area where you cannot wash your hands. Whatever bacteria that are under your nails will be deposited into the bite area as you scratch. The discomfort comes from mosquito saliva that is injected into your skin as the mosquito feeds. It causes an allergic reaction in most people that results in itching, redness, and swelling. Some people react worse than others.
Calling In The Big Guns
Contact Prewett Pest Control for the best in mosquito control and prevention for your property. Serving East Alabama, West Alabama, and the Gulf Coast, we are well acquainted with the unique pest control needs of the citizens of Opelika. Call today for a mosquito control estimate or to learn more about the other Opelika pest control services we offer.