FEBRUARY 01 2022 /
Mosquitoes are back again, folks! And with these intolerable insects comes itchy bites and disease. Here are five things you need to know this season to keep your household protected and comfortable:
The Zika virus is currently the most notoriously known disease from mosquitoes but many others have been tracked as well.
Mosquitoes can also simultaneously carry other diseases such as dengue and chikungunya. Although there haven't been any infected mosquitoes found in Charlotte, it's important to be aware and knowledgeable of the diseases these pests can harbor.
Similarly, even though cases of Zika have dropped across world, everybody, especially pregnant women, should still protect themselves against the disease. You can never be too safe.
Mecklenburg County health officials are doing what they can to keep the Zika virus out of the Carolinas.
They're teaming up with UNC Charlotte researcher Ari Whiteman for the "Urban Mosquito Project."
The "Urban Mosquito Project" compares variables including: weather patterns, distance to green space, even certain socioeconomic factors to keep us Charlotteans safe.
To help out, get in touch with Whiteman and his team as they will be placing 90-100 traps around Charlotte and need volunteers to help place and check these traps throughout the summer.
Never go outside during mosquito season without repellent. Studies have found repellents containing DEET or oil of lemon eucalyptus are the most effective.
Don't rely on the citronella candle or mosquito-repellent bracelets when you're trying to protect yourself as these have very little prevention.
Instead, cover up with long pants and sleeves and spray yourself down with repellent when you will be outside for an extended amount of time.
We all know that a day on Lake Norman means the potential for itchy bug bites.
But did you know that the smallest amounts of water will draw in these pests too? Especially with all the rain that we've had lately. The mosquitoes are flocking breeding spots.
In fact, some species of mosquitoes can breed in as little as a teaspoon of water. If you’ve got standing water such as a pond or fountain on your property, consider getting your yard sprayed to prevent heavy breeding.