Tip, Toss, Take Action
Mosquito season is here; in fact, the invasive Aedes mosquito now resides in every Orange County city. With June 20 through June 26 being National Mosquito Awareness Week, the Orange County Mosquito and Vector Control District (ocvector.org) is calling on all OC residents to help increase awareness and take measures to help reduce the mosquito population and spread of disease.
Did You Know?
Many mosquitoes breed in small water sources in residential backyards, and they do not fly far from the source. Eliminating these small water sources can reduce the number of mosquitoes on your property. Search around your property for any standing water (indoors and out) and discard unused containers: https://bit.ly/TipToss.
Mosquitoes can lay up to 300 eggs in as little water as a bottle cap?! Imagine what they can do in a bird bath, kiddie pool or out-of-service pool!
Take Action!
Preventing mosquito bites is key. Orange County Mosquito and Vector Control District offers the following tips:
- Apply mosquito repellents to exposed skin before going outdoors; reapply as recommended
- Wear repellent containing DEET, Picaridin, IR3535 or oil of lemon eucalyptus
- Close all unscreened doors and windows to prevent mosquitoes from entering your home or space; repair broken or damaged screens
- Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants, and opt for lighter colored clothing
Eliminating mosquito breeding sources from your property is critical:
- Dump and drain any containers filled with water at least once a week
- Clean and scrub bird baths and pet water bowls weekly
- Dump water from potted plant saucers
- Do not transport or share plant stems rooted in water
- Drill a hole or puncture containers to eliminate standing water
More Resources
- ocvector.org/where-to-look-and-what-to-do
- ocvector.org/mosquito-repellent-information
- ocvector.org/invasive-aedes-mosquitoes
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