Pinellas County Tries To Smack Giant Mosquito Problem

Pinellas County tries to smack giant mosquito problem . Mosquitoes in Florida have always been a nuisance, but their impact goes beyond ruining a backyard barbecue. They can bring dangerous diseases along with them. Pinellas County Mosquito Control emphasizes the importance of being vigilant about mosquito breeding sources in our own yards.

Various breeding sources are potential hotspots, such as birdbaths, gutters, A/C drip lines, and even tarps with dips that can hold water. Surprisingly, it takes just a bottle cap's worth of water for mosquitoes to breed, according to Alissa Berro, the Director of Pinellas County Mosquito Control. If you have a mosquito problem, they offer a free service to assist you.

Pinellas County Mosquito Control initiates the process by providing a service request. A technician will visit your home and accompany you in surveying your yard to identify potential mosquito breeding locations. Kailey Travis, associated with Pinellas County Mosquito Control, emphasizes that they focus on targeted areas for mosquito spraying, unlike the widespread spraying in the past.

Travis explains, "We are very targeted with our approach with foggings, so we are not driving up and down the county anymore like a lot of people remember. We are no longer just a spray operation, we do a lot of monitoring and collect a lot of data to see where we actually need to be doing those activities." This shift in strategy includes extensive monitoring, data collection, and public outreach programs, crucial elements in controlling the wide variety of mosquitoes in Pinellas County.

Glen-Paul Edson, also from Pinellas County Mosquito Control, highlights the diverse range of mosquito species in the county. With approximately 40 mosquito species in Pinellas County alone, and over 80 in the state of Florida, they each breed in different habitats. Some species bite amphibians, reptiles, or birds. However, certain mosquito species also bite humans and carry diseases. This is why Pinellas County urges everyone to contribute to mosquito control efforts.

By staying proactive and taking necessary precautions, as Pinellas County tries to smack giant mosquito problem, we can effectively combat the mosquito problem. Remember, a small action like eliminating potential breeding sources in our own yards can go a long way in safeguarding ourselves and our community from mosquito-borne diseases. Let's join hands to control mosquitoes and create a safer environment for all. NewsChannel8

Fight the bite 5 mosquito tips for Polk County and Florida. Mosquitoes are more than just annoying pests. They can also transmit diseases, such as the Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) virus. Recently, the Florida Department of Health in Polk County has issued an advisory due to an increase in mosquito-borne disease activity in areas of Polk County. Mosquito-borne illnesses are a serious concern, and taking these basic precautions can help limit exposure. For more information about mosquito-borne illnesses, visit the Florida Department of Health website. Stay safe and protect yourself from mosquitoes! TBT

Drain standing water - Eliminate standing water from sources such as garbage cans, house gutters, buckets, pool covers, coolers, toys, flowerpots, or any other containers where sprinkler or rainwater has collected.

Discard unused items - Get rid of old tires, drums, bottles, cans, pots and pans, broken appliances, and other items that aren't being used.

Clean pet bowls and birdbaths - Empty and clean birdbaths and pets' water bowls at least once or twice a week.

Cover vehicles - Protect boats and vehicles from rain with tarps that don't accumulate water.

Wear protective clothing - Cover skin with clothing or repellent. Wear shoes, socks, and long pants and long-sleeves. This type of protection may be necessary for people who must work in areas where mosquitoes are present.