Mosquito Prevention is Key When Enjoying the Outdoors
Mosquitoes are one of nature’s biggest nuisances. They carry disease, pack a painful bite, and can ruin a backyard BBQ in a matter of minutes. Mosquito prevention is the best way to protect your yard and family from the aggravation of these warm weather pests.
Major Concerns
Besides being annoying, there is a very real reason mosquito prevention should be on the top of your to-do list right now: deadly diseases. Mosquitoes are the number one threat to people around the world! Doctor and vet bills can pile on if the wrong mosquitoes bites you or your pet.
Here are a few of the most concerning illnesses mosquitoes can pass on to people and pets in the United States:
- Zika – This disease can carry especially terrifying side effects for pregnant women. Most infected people suffer from mild symptoms like fever, joint pain, and red eyes. And many victims who carry the virus don’t even realize it. But the true toll is taken on babies still in their mother’s womb.
- West Nile Virus – This virus tends to grab the most headlines in the U.S. because it can be found in all areas. Most infected people run a fever and experience flu like symptoms. Others can develop severe neurological complications.
- Heartworms – This is not a virus but a small worm which gets transmitted by mosquitoes. Dogs are the primary hosts but in rare cases humans can be infected.
In all cases of these illnesses mosquito prevention is the best option. That means talking to professionals, like those at Backyard Defenders, that can get your yard treated and protected before you start spending time outside.
Avoiding Bites
In addition to having your yard protected, there are a few other things you can try to avoid bites.
Avoid Mosquito Prone Areas: Avoid the damp areas of your yard and check for standing water. Look for dog dishes, decorative pools and ponds, and anything where pools of water may collect.
Wear Light Colors That Cover: This may sound unusual, but mosquitoes are attracted to dark colors. Wearing lightly colored clothing that cover vital areas like arms and legs is a good way to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes.
Insect Repellent: When it comes to avoiding mosquito bites insect repellent is right up there with yard mosquito prevention. You can buy insect repellents from your local store. Those with the chemical, DEET, are effective, but there are alternatives if you are allergic.
Stay Indoors at Dusk and Dawn: Generally, mosquitoes are more active at dusk and dawn. These times of the day are often cooler and less windy, making conditions more favorable conditions for mosquitoes. Try to plan your activities around those times of day until your yard can be properly treated.
Prevention is Key
Your yard is a haven for you and your family, it’s not likely you will stay out of it all spring and summer long. Mosquito prevention techniques work quickly and are safe for your family and pets. It’s really the best option to enjoy the outdoors and stay safe in the warmer weather.
Get a Quote On a Mosquito Prevention Program Today!
Ready to begin a mosquito prevention program? Contact Backyard Defenders today or fill out the form below for a FREE Quote!