Fighting the Fliers: Mosquito Control in Miami
Nothing can ruin a beautiful day or night in Miami like pesky mosquitoes. Not only are they a nuisance, but they also carry various diseases such as Zika and West Nile virus.
If you’re sick of swatting at mosquitoes in Miami (or dealing with their itchy bites), then this post is for you.
We’ll teach you everything you need to know about mosquito control in Miami (and the rest of the Sunshine State, for that matter!) so you can get back to enjoying every single second of your time spent outdoors.
What Are the Potential Health Risks Presented by Mosquitoes?
Mosquitoes are known carriers of several diseases. For instance, when a mosquito bites an infected person or animal, it takes in the virus, then passes it on to the next victim.
This makes mosquitoes dangerous transmitters of viral diseases such as dengue fever, Zika virus, West Nile virus, and chikungunya.
Mosquitoes can also transmit parasitic diseases such as malaria. Malaria is a severe and life-threatening disease that affects millions of people worldwide every year. The disease is transmitted when infected mosquitoes bite humans, injecting the parasites that cause malaria into our bloodstream.
If you’re allergic to mosquito bites, it can cause severe itching, swelling, and redness. Some people may develop anaphylactic reactions to mosquitoes which can be life-threatening. Anaphylactic reactions can cause breathing difficulties, a rapid heart rate, unconsciousness, and even death. Symptoms of anaphylaxis require immediate medical attention.
Mosquitoes are also known to cause local infections such as cellulitis, a bacterial skin infection. The symptoms of cellulitis include pain, redness, and swelling around the site of the mosquito bite.
The infection can spread rapidly throughout your body if left untreated. In addition, mosquito bites can also cause other infections, including lymphangitis, an inflammation of the lymphatic system which can result in swelling and red streaks around the site of the bite.
Prevention and Control Strategies for Mosquitoes in Miami
Now that you know what’s causing mosquitoes to swarm around your property in droves, here are some tips for getting rid of them.
Reduce Potential Breeding Sites
Stagnant water is the ideal breeding ground for mosquitoes. Therefore, it is imperative to eliminate any standing water around your house. This can include old tires, buckets, and even a small dish under a plant.
Regularly empty any water-filled containers and clean bird baths, fountains, and pools. If you have outdoor containers, drill small holes in the bottom so water doesn’t accumulate.
Install Window Screens
Another effective way to prevent mosquitoes from entering your home is to install window screens. Window screens will not only keep the mosquitoes out but also other insects from entering your home.
Use Mosquito Repellents When Outdoors
When you want to spend time outside but the annoying buzz of mosquitoes isn’t necessarily the music you want filling your ears, try repellents. Many effective repellents containing DEET are available on the market. You can also opt for natural alternatives, such as citronella, lavender, or eucalyptus oils.
Check Your House for Cracks, Gaps, or Tears
Mosquitoes, like other insects, can enter your home through small openings, so it’s important to seal any cracks in your walls or gaps or tears in your window screens. Inspect all outdoor walls and seal any crevices that allow mosquitoes in your home.
Dress Appropriately
When you’re spending time outside, wear appropriate clothing that covers most of your skin. Mosquitoes are attracted to dark colors, so opt for light-colored clothing whenever possible.
Maintain Your Lawn
Just as much as they love moisture, mosquitoes love to breed in grassy or overly-vegetated areas, so regularly trim the grass or trees in your yard to prevent any potential breeding grounds.
Use Natural Remedies
Though not all of these are backed by solid science, there are a few natural remedies you can try to help repel mosquitoes, such as catnip oil, lemon eucalyptus oil, or neem oil. You can also grow mosquito-repelling plants like lavender, basil, and lemongrass.
Again, the research on this is mixed – and some of the evidence is anecdotal – but it’s worth a shot.
The Best Mosquito Control in Miami
There’s no need to suffer the wrath of pesky mosquitoes in Miami. With these top-rated pest control companies, you can enjoy your outdoor space year-round without worry.
When you choose Hawx Pest Control, you’re guaranteed excellent service and comprehensive mosquito control. So, take back your outdoor space and enjoy all that Miami has to offer without worrying about those pesky fliers! Give Hawx a call and join our satisfied family of customers today.
