Summer is starting to roll out in Mississippi, and more people are looking to get outdoors. But that enjoyment can be marred by pesky mosquitoes.
We spoke with Dr. Timothy Quinn of Quinn Healthcare about how to avoid mosquito bites this summer.
Mosquito control
- Use recommended mosquito repellent.
- Cover your arms and legs with long sleeves, long skirts, and long pants.
- Avoid mosquito-prone areas in the mornings and evenings, when mosquitoes are most active.
- Remove sources of standing water around your home where mosquitoes can breed and make sure your window screens are in good condition.
- Avoid areas where mosquitoes are most likely to be found – outdoors in the shade, in areas with lots of vegetation, and where the ground is damp or wet.
- Use a mosquito net if you sleep outdoors or indoors where mosquitoes may be present.
Recommended mosquito repellents contain DEET and are sold under many brand names and in a variety of forms, including lotions and sprays.
Protect your home
- Repair a broken septic tank.
- Keep grass short and shrubs trimmed.
- Dispose of old tires, cans, plastic containers, ceramic pots, and other unused containers that collect water.
- Change the water in bird baths, watering pools and other water containers on your property at least once a week.
- Please cover your trash can to prevent rainwater from getting in.
- Clear clogged roof drains, especially if leaves tend to block the drains.
- Fix leaking pipes and outdoor faucets.
- They pump air into ornamental pools and stock them with predatory fish.
- Pools should be cleaned and chlorinated even when not in use.
- Keep drains, ditches and culverts clear of grass clippings, weeds and trash to ensure water drains properly.
