Things You can do to Control Mosquitoes

Mosquitoes are a nuisance and can spread diseases such as dengue fever, malaria, and Zika virus. It is important to take steps to control mosquitoes around your home and in your community.
There are a number of things you can do to control mosquitoes, including:

1. Eliminate standing water. Mosquitoes breed in standing water, so it is important to eliminate any standing water around your home. This includes emptying containers of water, fixing leaky faucets, and cleaning up gutters.
2. Use mosquito repellents. When you are outdoors, use mosquito repellent that contains DEET, picaridin, or IR3535. Apply repellent to exposed skin and clothing.
3. Wear long sleeves and pants. When you are outdoors, wear long sleeves and pants to protect your skin from mosquitoes.
4. Install screens in windows and doors. Screens will help to keep mosquitoes out of your home.
5. Use mosquito dunks. Mosquito dunks are floating tablets that contain larvacides that kill mosquito larvae. You can place mosquito dunks in ponds, birdbaths, and other sources of standing water.
6. Get rid of trash. Mosquitoes can breed in trash, so it is important to get rid of trash regularly.
7. Keep your grass cut short. Mosquitoes like to breed in tall grass, so it is important to keep your grass cut short.
8. Encourage bats in your area. Bats eat mosquitoes, so encouraging bats to live in your area can help to control mosquito populations.
9. Support mosquito control efforts in your community. Contact your local health department to find out about mosquito control efforts in your community.
   By taking these steps, you can help to control mosquitoes and protect yourself and your family from mosquito-borne diseases.