Eliminate standing water to prevent mosquitoes

Mel Whitson, Senior Field Technical Service Manager, Zoëcon Professional Products

Spring’s combination of wet and warming conditions triggers mosquito species that overwintered as adults to emerge from their winter hiding spots and head for breeding grounds. Advise customers that the first step in mosquito control is eliminating standing water where possible. Spring cleaning should include trimming shrubs and landscaping around buildings and recreation areas, ensuring airflow underneath and away from structures. Reducing humidity and denying resting areas for mosquitoes is key.

Informing customers about the importance of patching and sealing gaps in doors, frames and screens also is vital. While mosquitoes may seem like a mere annoyance, they pose serious health risks, carrying viruses and diseases such as West Nile virus, dengue and Zika virus. Effective communication and collaboration between PMPs and customers are essential to combat this seasonal threat.