How to Deal This Upcoming Mosquito Season in Oklahoma?
As the warmer, wetter months inch closer, the mosquito population in Oklahoma surges. A study in 2019 revealed that Oklahoma City was among the top few regions of the country most affected by mosquito infestations.
These tiny little critters are not only annoying but also bring a host of health concerns in the tow.
West Nile Virus is the most common mosquito-borne disease in Oklahoma. Others include chikungunya, dengue, zika virus and malaria. Thankfully, the market has developed quite a few mosquito treatments that can bring you relief.
Some Effective Mosquito Treatments
Chemical Mosquito Repellents
Chemical repellents are perhaps the most popular way to get rid of mosquitoes. A repellent should contain at least 30%-50% DEET to be considered adequate. However, note that children should only use products with 10%-30% DEET. Infants aged below two months are not to be sprayed with bug repellents at all.
A while back, DEET was met with questions regarding its safety, but the Environmental Protection Agency has dispelled such doubts.
Mosquito Traps
Traps have only recently become popular. There are a few different varieties of mosquito traps available. Some mimic human breath to lure mosquitoes in, while others may use a highly concentrated sugar solution. Once within the vicinity, these traps use electric zapping or adhesive to kill the mosquitoes. Some traps are also designed to drown them.
Traps are ideal if you wish to eradicate mosquitoes from a particular area. Strategic placement and regular use will give noticeable results.
Electric Bug Zappers
Bug Zappers emit a UV light that draws in bugs. The device has metal grids that electrocute the bugs. However, the only problem is that bug zappers often end up killing the wrong bugs and are rarely as effective against mosquitoes.
To counter this, companies have come out with an electric mosquito swatter which is essentially a tennis racquet-like-looking device that incinerates mosquitoes upon contact.
Natural Mosquito Repellents
If you are looking to avoid DEET, essential oils can be your alternative repellents. Some of the most potent natural mosquito treatments are listed below.
Lemon Eucalyptus
Citronella
Lavender
Cinnamon
Neem
Green tea
Thyme
It is reasonably simple to prepare a natural repellent. Drop a few drops of the essential oil into a cup of water, bottle the solution, and spray it onto your skin, clothes, curtains, and other surfaces around the house.
Other mosquito repellents
Certain types of Soaps
There are outdoor soaps that alter the scent of your sweat to repel mosquitoes.
Candles
The essential oils, when incorporated into a candle, can be used against mosquitoes.
Camphor
A widely popular mosquito treatment originating from Asia is using camphor tablets. You can either burn the camphor or leave it around the room.
Rotating Fans
Rotating fans provide a strong airflow that mosquitoes are unable to fly in.
Mosquito Control with Mother Nature's Pest &Lawn
Nearly 40 years of service have taught us the secret to effective mosquito control treatments. Our diligent team begins by inspecting your house and targeting possible entry points. Once the initial treatment is over, our pest control professionals will pay monthly visits to ensure the mosquitoes don't come back. Reach out to us via our contact page. Make sure to check out our special offers!
