During the first week of June, Orange County Mosquito and Vector Control District (OCMVCD) trapped more than 15,000 tule mosquitoes (Culex erythrothorax) near UC Irvine marshland and is actively treating the area to reduce populations.
Tule mosquitoes are aggressive dusk and dawn biters and can carry West Nile virus, Western equine encephalitis and St. Louis encephalitis.
Residents should also be aware of Aedes aegypti mosquitoes (a.k.a. “ankle biters”), which are daytime biters and can spread dengue fever, yellow fever, chikungunya and Zika.
“Mosquitoes are the deadliest animals on earth,” says Brian Brannon, OCMVCD public information officer. “That’s why you call a group of mosquitoes a scourge.” Learn more about OCMVCD’s mosquito-fighting tactics in his recent interview on “This Day.”
Prevent Mosquito Bites
- Apply mosquito repellent to exposed skin before going outdoors; reapply as recommended
- Wear repellent clothing containing DEET, Picaridin, IR3535 or lemon eucalyptus oil
- Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants, and opt for lighter-colored clothing
- Dump and drain outdoor containers filled with water at least weekly
- Close all unscreened doors and windows to prevent mosquitoes from entering your home or space; repair broken or damaged screens
Eliminate Breeding Sources Around the Home
- Dump water from potted plant saucers as often as possible
- Dump and drain other containers filled with water as often as possible
- Clean and scrub bird baths and pet water bowls weekly
During National Mosquito Awareness Week, which runs from Sunday, June 15, through Saturday, June 21, OCMVCD will share tips and educational content on mosquitoessuck.org and via social media. Residents can also participate in the Mosquito Buster social media challenge with prizes including tickets to an Angels game, the Discovery Cube, the Santa Ana Zoo and local cinemas.
Residents can request a free mosquito inspection by calling 714-971-2421 or visiting ocvector.org.
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