How Dangerous Are Mosquitoes In Houston?

The warm temperatures and humid climate of Houston, TX, create an ideal environment for mosquitoes to feed and breed. As mosquito populations increase, the ability for people to enjoy outdoor events and activities decreases.

While many view mosquitoes as an irritating nuisance, these disease-carrying pests are capable of delivering much more than an itch needing to be scratched. If you suspect a growing mosquito infestation, it is time to find an experienced mosquito control professional for your Houston property.

Mosquito Identification And Habitat

Mosquitoes have small and slender bodies that average around 1/8 to 3/8 of an inch in length with six long, thin legs, and one set of scaled wings. They are grey, black, or brown in color, with variations of coloring and markings depending on the species.

The biggest attracting factors for mosquitoes are stagnant water sources for breeding sites and shady areas that provide comfortable resting spots. Mosquitoes are almost guaranteed to infest any location that provides one or both of these conditions.

Some of the more common areas for mosquito infestations include ponds, marshes, and heavily wooded areas. Mosquitoes can also be found on properties with dense vegetation, fence lines, drainage ditches, puddles, and overturned items.

Dangers Associated With Mosquito Bites

When people think of mosquitoes, they often recall their whining buzz or the irritation of their itchy bites. Many of us tend to glaze over the fact that mosquitoes are considered one of the deadliest animals on the planet.

There are plenty of risks associated with mosquitoes in Houston, and they all trace back to a variety of mosquito-borne diseases, including chikungunya, Zika virus, malaria, dengue, West Nile virus, and yellow fever.

Each year, approximately 700 million people contract mosquito-borne illnesses, and roughly one million of those cases will lead to death. Some people may not present any symptoms at all, while others can experience serious residual health conditions for the rest of their lives.

Mosquito Prevention Tips

It’s difficult to avoid mosquitoes outdoors, but there are some methods that will assist with the reduction of breeding sites and populations around your property. Here are a few tips to get you started and help keep you protected at home or on the go:

Eliminate standing water sources, including bird baths, pool covers, and overturned items such as trash lids, flower pot saucers, tires, baby pools, and children’s toys.
Fill in low-lying areas in yard or driveway where water can collect.
Repair leaking sprinklers, hoses, or spigots.
Clear gutters on a regular basis. Occasionally inspect them to make sure they are in good working order.
Keep lawn, shrubbery, and trees well-trimmed. Regularly remove organic debris from property, including lawn clippings, leaves, branches, logs, and tree stumps.
Install or repair door sweeps, weather stripping, and screens on doors and windows.
Wear light-colored and loose-fitting clothing when spending time outdoors. Long sleeves, pants, and closed-toed shoes are also helpful.
Spray clothing and exposed skin with mosquito repellent products that contain DEET before going outside.
Avoid moist and heavily shaded areas that attract mosquitoes, such as swamps, marshlands, and dense forests.
Refrain from going outdoors during peak mosquito activity at dusk and dawn.

Preventive measures will help reduce mosquito populations and deter them from attacking, but they won’t get to the root of the issue. Teaming up with a reliable mosquito control service is the best way to ensure a mosquito-free property.

Effective Mosquito Control

Whatever your pest problems may be, Modern Pest Control is prepared to provide you with exceptional advice, assistance, and service. We have been proudly serving the greater Houston area with more than 70 years of experience in the pest control industry.

Modern Pest Control pest management professionals undergo rigorous training and licensing to meet and exceed your pest control needs. We utilize the latest and greatest pest control treatments to guarantee the health and safety of our community.

Modern Pest Control will help you reduce the number of mosquitoes on your property and keep them from coming back. We offer long-term mosquito control solutions and one-time treatments for outdoor events and entertainment.