Officials from the Florida Mosquito Control Association have released must-read safety information for fighting back against the growing issue of mosquitos in the Sunshine State.
With summer now just days away, people are beginning their annual release of helpful safety tips for summer-related issues like when to wear SPF, stay hydrated, and even avoid a shark attack. Another health threat is that of mosquitos, which are the most dangerous animal in the world with an annual kill count of 1 million.
Mosquito safety is paramount
Despite their minuscule size and lack of razor-sharp teeth, mosquitos are the most deadly living thing on the planet, besides humans of course. Through their unrivaled need to consume, mosquitos can pass on serious infections like Dengue fever, Zika, malaria, West Nile virus, and Equine Encephalitis.
The Florida Mosquito Control Association (FMCA) was joined by over 80 other groups this week as they warned Florida residents about the danger of mosquitos. Of course, the information can be applied to any location with a high concentration of nasty insects.
“The world’s top mosquito control scientists and experts are in Florida, working 24/7 to control and mitigate the threat of disease,” said Richard Weaver, President of the Florida Mosquito Control Association and Business Manager at the Anastasia Mosquito Control District in St. Johns County “Floridians know and understand the need to be vigilant about hurricanes and tropical storms, however, we must also be vigilant about mosquitoes.”
Florida is of particular note due to the combination of hot weather and the amount of people who flock there each year. Coincidentally, weather changes and tropical storms also push mosquitos into a yearly Florida holiday.
“Preparing for mosquitoes is similar to what Floridians do each hurricane season,” said Dr. Jorge Rey, FMCA Vice President and professor at the University of Florida’s Medical Entomology Laboratory. “Smart, precautionary measures can help reduce mosquitoes around your home and mitigate public health risks.”
The 3 D’s could be your saving grace
While there is no way to completely protect yourself from mosquitos, safety procedures from officials are a great first step to protecting your health. The first D is drain, which should be done following a downpour.
“Following a rain or storm, each household and property becomes a resort for mosquitoes looking for a place to lay her eggs,” the advice reads in a recent press release. “Mosquitoes only need a teaspoon of water to develop, so emptying even small accumulations of water outside can make a difference.”
The second point is dress, which calls for you to wear clothes that appropriately cover exposed areas. This means ditching the shorts for long, light-colored pants, and opting for long-sleeved tops.
“Mosquito repellents containing DEET, Picaridin and IR3535 are powerful shields against mosquitoes. If a more natural product is preferred, repellents containing Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus are great options,” the advice concluded.
