Mosquito Control By Mike Reeves, Regional Extension Agent, Morgan County

The media has done a good job reporting stories on the West Nile Virus and with summer fast approaching, I thought I might go over some mosquito control measures.

Between the years 2001-2005, the Alabama Department of Public Health reported approximately 67 confirmed cases of West Nile to the Centers for Disease Control. The most effective means to control being bitten by a mosquito involves sanitation. Mosquitoes prefer standing water with no current to lay eggs. The still water is perfect for the mosquito larvae to develop. Obviously, we can't get rid of standing water, such as ponds or ditches, but we can eliminate water from other containers around our homes and neighborhoods.

In situations where standing water cannot be avoided, larvicides can be used to control the mosquito larvae in the water. One such product is Bacillus thuringiensis var. israelensis (Bti). This is a product that can be utilized in unused swimming pools and retention ponds. This product is commercially available as Bactomos, Teknar, and Vectobac. Bti is considered a "biological" method and poses minimal threat to other organisms.

Insect growth regulators such as methoprene can be used in water when fish are present. Commercial formulations include Altosid that is available in liquid and briquettes. This product prevents larvae from becoming adults. The briquettes are reported to last up to 30 days.

Malathion, temephos (abate) and pyrethrins are also commonly used larvicides. Read the label concerning dangers to fish and other aquatic life before using these products. Another method of larvae control in ornamental ponds is to stock the pond with gambusia fish that feed on mosquito larvae.

Control of adult mosquitoes is more difficult. In most cases, foggers and citronella candles only provide temporary relief by repelling mosquitoes from the area. Some control can be achieved by treating shaded areas around the perimeter of your grounds with Malathion. Again, be sure to read the label before using this product.

The best course of action to protect yourself from mosquitoes is to use an insect repellent containing diethyl toluamide (DEET). A repellant with 10-15 percent DEET should be adequate. All a repellant does is confuse the mosquito so it cannot detect a suitable spot to feed.

Don't let the news media scare you into spending all your time indoors. Take the necessary precautions you need to protect yourself from mosquitoes and quit worrying about the West Nile Virus. The best way to totally avoid contact with mosquitoes is to spend all summer indoors, and I don't think most of you want to do that!

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