Get ready for Mosquito Control Awareness Week

Although pest professionals may have just caught their collective breath over National Bed Bug Awareness Week, next week the industry’s attention turns to mosquitoes. Taking place June 21 to June 27, 2015, the 19th annual event is spearheaded by the American Mosquito Control Association (AMCA).

“Over the last few years, the U.S. has had increased cases of mosquito-borne illnesses, such as West Nile Virus (WNV), and other exotic diseases such as dengue fever and Chikungunya threaten our shores,” says AMCA Technical Advisor Joe Conlon.

At least two players in the mosquito control segment are taking advantage of the heightened awareness Mosquito Week brings. MosquitoNix, based in Carrollton, Texas, sent out a press release highlighting “7 Tips to Fight a Tough Mosquito Season.”

“Heavy spring showers over long periods of time prevent a drought, but the remaining standing water sets the stage for prime mosquito breeding.” explains Dan O’Neal, Chairman & CEO of FEMO Group Holdings, MosquitoNix’s parent company. “That’s why we expect a lot more mosquitos this summer, creating a threat to families and pets all across the country. More mosquitoes mean more mosquito bites, or worse, it may mean more cases of mosquito-borne illnesses. We want everyone to protect their families and pets against mosquitos and avoid being bitten either at home or while traveling internationally.”

Mosquito Joe, based in Virginia Beach, Va., is taking awareness to the next level: For the third year, Mosquito Joe locations across the country are partnering with local blood banks to raise awareness about mosquito-borne illnesses and the importance of mosquito control. The “Beat the Bloodsuckers” campaign will also give back to the community by organizing blood drives and donating a percentage of new customer sales that week to local blood donation centers. “

Mosquito Joe is not only committed to protecting the community with our mosquito control services, but also to educating residents about the importance of mosquito control,” says Mosquito Joe CEO Kevin “Head Joe” Wilson. “During this time, our franchisees work diligently to educate their neighbors and encourage them to support their local blood banks.”