Mosquitoes are among the most annoying things that we have in Jamaica and, in the recent days since the rain associated with Hurrricane Ian, they have been very prominent, buzzing at our ears and biting our skin.

The reason for this is because mosquitoes thrive in hot or humid temperatures which are common to Jamaica.

These blood thirsty insects are also known to spread diseases such Zika, Malaria, Dengue and  Chikungunya, which can be detrimental to ones health.

So, as the season presents itself again, here is a reminder of the things you can do to control the presence of mosquitoes in and outside your home.

Outside the home

Mosquitoes thrive in standing water, using it to lay their eggs. As such, the following actions should be taken to repel the insects.

1. Once a week, empty and scrub, turn over, cover, or throw out any items that hold water. These include tires, buckets, planters, toys, pools, birdbaths, flowerpot saucers, or trash containers. Mosquitoes lay eggs near water.
2. Tightly cover water storage containers like drums, buckets and barrels so that mosquitoes cannot lay eggs in the water.
3. Keep grass cut short and shrubbery well trimmed so adult mosquitoes will not hide there.
4. Cover trash containers to keep out rain water.
5. Repair leaky pipes and outdoor taps.
6. Use an outdoor insect spray made to kill mosquitoes in areas where they rest.
7. Fill in or drain any low places (puddles, ruts) in yard.

Inside the home

Despite our best efforts to keep them out, mosquitoes still find their way inside. Though we cannot get rid of them entirely, here are ways to reduce their presence inside the house.

1. Do not leave doors that lead to outside open.
2. Close windows before it gets dark.
3. Install or repair and use window and door screens. 
4. Use air conditioning when possible.
5.  Use an indoor insect fogger or indoor insect spray that contains DEET to kill mosquitoes and treat areas where they rest. 
6. Empty and scrub flower vases twice weekly.
7. Sleep under a mosquito net
8. Open windows and doors during fogging.