If you live in New England, you’re probably not enthusiastic when the summer months come around and an influx of mosquitos begin terrorizing everyone in their path. However, with each passing year, they surely become more and more irritating.

Nothing is more of a nuisance than the buzzing around your face and the red, itchy welts after their arrival. Mosquitos can turn a tranquil evening into a flurry of swatting hands in the air! Not to mention, their bites can be more dangerous than a little itching. Here’s everything you need to know about the dangers of mosquitos and keeping them at bay.

How common are mosquito-borne diseases in New England?

For the first time in 2021, a Massachusetts mosquito is a carrier of West Nile Virus. This week alone, three mosquitos in Rhode Island have also tested positive for WNV.

This begs the question: How common are mosquito-borne illnesses in New England?

The Rhode Island Department of Health is now instructing residents to use many forms of mosquito prevention until the first hard frost. West Nile Virus is the most prevalent in the area, but Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) is also active in many surrounding states. These diseases are a danger to people of all ages and can cause severe flu-like symptoms.

What attracts mosquitos?

If you don’t want your yard to be a mosquito magnet, you need to know what attracts them. First and foremost, mosquitos love moisture. A downpour of rain can turn your backyard from an insect-free zone into a mosquito haven. Stagnant water is a breeding ground for these insects, so it is essential to watch the weather and prevent standing water buildup before putting on that backyard bash.

Standing water hides in many nooks and crannies such as your gutters and birdbaths. By frequently cleaning your gutters, replacing birdbath water, and even assisting lawn drainage with dethatching and aeration services, mosquitos will have no choice but to occupy somewhere else.

How else can I protect myself from mosquito bites?

We have some additional tips and tricks up our sleeves that can be used for daily protection from mosquitos.

1. Apply mosquito repellents properly

Oftentimes, people misuse spray-on repellents, making them less effective. DEET products are powerful but must be applied only to the skin in a slow, sweeping motion. DEET works by hiding the natural scent of humans.

2. Use essential oils

Would you rather go the “au naturel” route and ditch the DEET? Essential oils will come in handy! Many brands opt to use lemon eucalyptus oil, peppermint, and citronella in their mosquito repellents. These ingredients are both effective and gentle on your skin.

3. Stay indoors during dusk and dawn

These pesky insects are active at all times of the day depending on their species. However, mosquitos that carry EEE are most active around sunrise and sunset. This is because they seek out cool, shaded environments before the sun is fully up. During these times, it’s best to stay indoors and wait out the mosquito frenzy.

4. Contact a local professional

If you’re looking for long-term protection for your family and home, contacting a local professional is the best possible option. Not only can they provide an insect barrier for your yard, but they can inform you of the mosquito activity in your area.

What are the benefits of hiring a professional?

There’s no need to spend hundreds of dollars on the latest electric mosquito rackets and get tangled in massive mosquito nets. Dealing with mosquito nuisances can be a hassle, so don’t do it alone. There’s a better solution: Hire a pro!

Hiring a professional guarantees long-term solutions to your pest problems. Not only do we send trained and experts to build a resistant shield across your yard, but we take the time to provide you with answers to all your questions.

If you’re ready to say bon voyage to these troublesome bugs, look no further. Our All-Natural Mosquito and Tick Control program provides a protective barrier around your home and landscape for season-long control.

Have any more questions? We have answers. Don’t hesitate to call us at (413) 998-7829 or email us at support@missiongreenservices.com to learn more about our mosquito and tick control.