TEXAS — Spring showers may bring flowers, but they also bring back pesky insects. Mosquito season is upon us.
In Texas, these insects are more than an annoyance. They can carry and transmit diseases that will make you ill. For some people, a bite could result in birth defects or even death. Mosquitoes can become infected when they bite other animals or infected humans and spread that to other living beings.
In 2020 alone, Texas saw more than 120 cases of the West Nile virus. To protect yourself from contracting viruses, it’s important to prevent breeding and biting of mosquitoes.
According to Texas DHSH, mosquitoes only need as little as one tablespoon of water to breed. This means any containers or body of water that may build up in and around your house could become a breeding ground for these insects.
Tips to prevent mosquitoes from breeding on your property:
- Empty pet bowls at least once a week
- Change the water in wading pools or bird baths weekly
- Clear gutters of debris and water
- Rinse and scrub vases indoors that contain water
- Water your lawns and gardens carefully so that the water doesn’t last for a couple days
- Keep your pools and hot tubs chlorinated
- Cover trash containers
- Empty any container that can hold water such as pots, buckets and old tires
- Treat front and back doors with insecticides if there are a lot of mosquitoes; if the problem persists, considers pesticide applications
To prevent mosquitoes from biting you, here are some tips:
- Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants
- Keep windows closed or install window screens
- Wear EPA-registered insect repellents