Control Area Mosquito Populations
As mosquito populations increase this summer, so does the potential for people to contract West Nile virus.
Last year, there were 54 cases of West Nile virus reported in Nebraska, a dramatic drop compared with 2,366 cases in 2003. But despite the decreasing occurrences of the disease, people should remain vigilant in taking precautions so the virus doesn't reappear in large numbers. To restrain the West Nile threat, people need to limit mosquito populations in their area.
Mosquitos breed in standing water and their eggs must be in water to hatch. Breeding sites include wading pools, bird baths, leaf-clogged gutters, low areas in yards and alleys, potted plants, poorly drained curbs leading to storm sewers, old tires or any other containers that will hold water. Making sure these areas do not have standing water for long periods of time can reduce the area mosquito population. Farmers also should check irrigation re-use pits and areas where drainage from irrigation or heavy rains drain to roadside ditches.
Insecticides can be used as residual sprays for mosquitoes that rest in shrubs, flowers and trees. There also are insecticide treatments for immature mosquitoes in the aquatic habitat. These can be applied as granules, pellets, briquettes or sprays.
If you have a pond that can support fish, another option is releasing mosquito-feeding fish, such as Gambusia affinis and killfish, in the mosquito-infested water. Generally, these fish do not survive Nebraska winters, so releases must be made annually.
Reducing breeding sources is a good way to control mosquitoes, but individual practices cannot yield total control. Many municipalities have stopped mosquito control programs because of cost, particularly for liability insurance, but these programs may be reinstated considering the seriousness of West Nile disease.
Don’t forget to use insect repellent if you are out of doors, especially if you are in an area where mosquitoes are biting. Recommend repellents contain DEET. If is also a good idea to wash or shower when returning inside after using insect repellent.
SOURCE: Dave Keith, Ph.D., urban integrated pest management specialist
