Mosquito Joe Provides Tips for National Mosquito Control Awareness Week

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. -  Mosquito Joe, a Neighborly company, is taking a stance against mosquitoes as it kicks off National Mosquito Control Awareness Week, June 18-24.

During the week, Mosquito Joe will educate the public about protecting people and their homes from these blood-sucking pests while raising awareness about the diseases they potentially carry.

Mosquitoes pose a significant threat to public health as carriers of diseases. In the U.S., the most common mosquito-borne disease is West Nile virus, followed by rising cases of dengue fever and the Zika virus, the company said.

To help homeowners combat these persistent bugs, Mosquito Joe offered essential tips for mosquito safety during National Mosquito Control Awareness Week:

1. Eliminate Standing Water: Remove or empty containers that can hold water, such as flower pots, watering cans, and buckets, as standing water can be a breeding ground for mosquitoes. Store any outdoor items that can collect rainwater in covered areas or place them upside-down.
2. Use Outdoor Fans: Mosquitoes do not like excessive air movement, so setting up an outdoor fan can create a breeze that makes it difficult for them to fly and infest an area.
3. Maintain Your Yard and Pools: Regularly mow and maintain your lawn to prevent tall grass that serves as a resting area for mosquitoes. Dispose of any debris and leaf piles that can retain water or moisture. Keep swimming pools clean, properly circulated and filtered. When not in use, use a pool cover to help keep your water mosquito-free. 
4. Install Screens for Your Windows and Doors: Ensure all windows and doors that are kept open during the summer weather have fitted screens to prevent mosquitoes from entering the house. 
5. Use Effective Repellents: Apply mosquito repellents, containing DEET, picaridin or other EPA-approved ingredients. Consider using mosquito netting or screens to protect infants and young children in strollers.
6. Wear Protective Clothing: Opt for long sleeves, pants and socks when outdoors during the evenings. Choose light-colored and loose-fitting clothing for comfort and better visibility.
7. Seek Professional Assistance: If you're dealing with a severe mosquito problem, consider hiring a professional pest control company like Mosquito Joe. The brand was awarded the Silver Tier by the EPA's Pesticide Environmental Stewardship Program (PESP) for its commitment to providing environmentally low-risk pest management control that's both safe and effective in eliminating mosquitoes from homes.  

"As global temperatures continue to rise, the surge in mosquito populations amplifies the risk of disease transmission," said Lou Schager, president of Mosquito Joe. "By actively participating in National Mosquito Control Awareness Week, our aim is to foster greater awareness regarding the crucial need to safeguard ourselves, our families, and our homes from mosquitoes and the illnesses they carry."