Welcome Summer; Unwelcome Mosquitoes

National Pest Management Association Offers Advice on Keeping Mosquitoes Away

Mosquitoes top the list of summer pest concerns according to recent research from the National Pest Management Association (NPMA). Although mosquitoes will inevitably continue to put a stinger into summer fun this year, NPMA offers solutions for homeowners on how to keep these backyard biters at bay.

Not only are mosquitoes a summer nuisance pest, they have also been known to be a major health threat to the public," advised Cindy Mannes, vice president of public affairs for NPMA.

So far this year, human cases of West Nile Virus (WNV), a potentially serious illness transmitted through mosquito bites, has been reported in Iowa, Mississippi and South Dakota according to the Center for Disease Control. Animal, avian, and mosquito WNV infections have been reported in 9 states including, California, Florida, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Mississippi, Tennessee, Texas and Virginia.

NPMA offers the following tips for homeowners seeking relief from mosquitoes this summer season:

To avoid mosquito nesting and breeding sites, eliminate standing water and other sources of moisture in or around the home in flowerpots, water dishes, birdbaths, swimming pool covers, barrels, and other objects that can collect water.

Keep trashcans covered and sealed.

When dining outside, keep food covered until ready to eat.

Keep windows and doors properly screened to keep mosquitoes outside.

Be alert when outdoors during dawn, dusk and early evening hours when mosquito-biting activity peaks.

If approached by a mosquito or any stinging insect, remain calm and quiet. Avoid swaying or swinging, as this may provoke an attack.

Avoid wearing dark colors and floral prints, loose-fitting garments, open-toe shoes and sweet-smelling perfumes or colognes.

Plan ahead for spending time outdoors and wear mosquito repellant with DEET.

Mannes reminds homeowners that pest professionals offer mosquito control solutions. "A majority of the public is unaware that there are effective professional treatment options for mosquitoes, " said Mannes.

To learn more about mosquito control options or to find a pest professional in your area visit www.pestworld.org or www.whatisipm.org.

##### The NPMA, a non-profit organization with more than 5,000 members, was established in 1933 to support the pest management industry's commitment to the protection of public health, food and property.