Mosquito Numbers are Down, Disease Risk is Up, How is that Possible?

Although the mosquito population in Minnesota usually dies off and goes dormant with the first freeze in late September or early October we aren’t there yet. WCCO Channel 4 is reporting that the number of mosquitoes in the state is going down according to the Metropolitan Mosquito Control District (MMCD), and yet the risk for mosquito-borne disease is up. It sounds confusing but actually, the reasoning is simple.

At the same time that “nuisance mosquitoes” begin to disappear, it is the peak time for the mosquitoes that carry West Nile Virus(WNV). Vector Ecologist of the MMCD, Kirk Johnson, tells us that while we may not be seeing nearly as many mosquitoes, the ones we are seeing are actually more dangerous. West Nile activity has increased in the state recently. Protection against mosquito bites is still extremely important until winter forces them into hibernation.

Lower Your Chances for a Mosquito Bite

As it begins to cool down, you want to be able to enjoy the beginning of fall like temperatures outdoors. The threat of West Nile doesn’t have to keep you indoors, but you do have to be cautious. Mosquito repellent is still a must this time of year. FDA approved repellent that contains DEET, oil of lemon eucalyptus, picaridin, or IR3535 is recommended. You can also consider your clothing. Long pants and sleeves help protect you from mosquito bites when temperatures permit. Timing is another simple protection strategy. Mosquitoes are more prevalent at dusk and dawn so plan your activities around that. You might even consider misting your clothing with permethrin in areas that you think will have a higher volume of mosquito activity. There is absolutely no reason to let mosquito activity control your life when there are plenty of ways to be cautious and keep your family protected.

Professional Treatment Makes Life Simple

The presence of West Nile Virus in Minnesota is evident. While most that contract the disease won’t experience the symptoms, 1% of people that are infected with West Nile will become very sick.

There is absolutely no way to know how you will be affected without getting bitten by an infected mosquito. Therefore the most important thing you can focus on is keeping that from happening. When out and about you have little control over what you might encounter and that is why the above precautionary measures are so important. However, at home, you have better options. You start by removing standing water and cleaning up areas that could become mosquito breeding grounds.

In addition, the best thing that you can do is turn to the professionals for help. Mosquito Squad of the Twin Cities can eliminate 85-90% of the mosquitoes in your yard. Lowering your risk for a mosquito bite is the best WNV prevention. It’s the beginning of a lovely time of year. There are great things to focus on, like football and back to school activities. You focus on those and let Mosquito Squad focus on eliminating the mosquitoes. Call us today.