Warm temperatures and rainfall are two factors that may soon lead to increasing numbers of mosquitoes in our area. The Wichita Falls-Wichita County Public Health District is asking everyone to start thinking about, and if needed, begin mosquito reduction efforts in their homes and backyards.
By lessening the number of mosquitoes, we can reduce the risk of mosquito-borne diseases, such as West Nile Virus. We can all help keep the mosquito numbers down by taking the following steps to get rid of standing water in which mosquitoes like to breed:
• Cover trash containers.
• Change water in pet dishes daily.
• Maintain backyard pools or hot tubs.
• Keep gutters clear of debris and standing water.
• Screen rain barrels and openings to water tanks or cisterns.
• Remove standing water around buildings and from flat roofs.
• Change water in bird baths several times a week.
• Once a week empty or discard cans, buckets, old tires, pots, and other things that hold water.
When out enjoying the warm temperatures, we can protect ourselves and our families by
• Wearing insect repellent that contains DEET;
• Covering up with long-sleeved shirts and long pants; and
• Preventing mosquitoes from entering our homes by keeping windows closed and using air conditioning. If you do open windows, make sure window screens are intact and do not have holes or tears.
If you have questions about mosquitoes, and how to control them around your home and yard, please call the Health District’s Environmental Health Division at 940.761.6808 or 7822.
