15 Things Mosquito Experts Never Do in the Summer

Mosquitoes are more than just a summer nuisance; they are the deadliest animal on Earth, spreading diseases such as malaria, dengue, West Nile virus, Zika, and chikungunya. In the United States, West Nile virus is the leading mosquito-borne disease, causing around 2,000 illnesses and over 130 deaths annually. The mosquito's deadly impact is due to its ability to breed in hidden, tiny pools of standing water, making it crucial for mosquito experts to avoid certain common mistakes during the summer months.

Firstly, mosquito experts never ignore standing water. They meticulously examine areas like bird baths, koi ponds, and fountains, as well as more concealed spots, including water trapped in a potted plant, discarded tires, and planter saucers. They also check for overlooked breeding grounds such as the cups of ornamental bromeliads in Florida and children's toys, which can collect water and become mosquito nurseries.

Secondly, they never overlook the possibility of mosquito activity during daylight hours. While it's true that many mosquitoes are more active during dawn and dusk, invasive Aedes mosquitoes, including Asian tiger mosquitoes, are highly active during the day and can transmit dangerous viruses like dengue, Zika, yellow fever, and chikungunya. These viruses aren't endemic in the continental U.S., but travelers can bring them home after getting infected elsewhere.

Lastly, mosquito experts never underestimate the power of a fan. Mosquitoes are weak flyers, and even a moderate breeze can make it difficult for them to land. By using fans and spatial repellents, they can make outdoor areas less hospitable to mosquitoes before family gatherings or outdoor dining. In essence, maintaining awareness and implementing these simple, effective strategies can help protect oneself and others from the dangerous diseases spread by mosquitoes during the summer months.