There’s nothing like waking up on the first day of summer with nothing on your to-do list. You walk out on to your porch and feel the warm ocean breeze in the fresh morning air. It’s the beginning of summer in Southern Maine, and there’s nothing like it. But then you feel a mosquito biting you. And all of a sudden, going back inside is sounding better and better.
While people commonly associate mosquitos with humid climates, these pests can unfortunately cause problems in more mild climates as well. Southern Maine summers are considered some of the most ideal vacation conditions on earth, and year-round residents take pride in this feather in their collective cap. However, mosquitoes can be a real nuisance for vacationers and locals alike. But the scary part is, these pests are far more dangerous than just being a simple annoyance.
Mosquitos: A Serious Health Hazard
While mosquitos put a damper on outdoor fun, they are actually considered the most dangerous animals in the world. This frightening accolade is due to their eating habits. You see, the female mosquito only feeds on the blood of animals such as pets, wildlife, and livestock (and, of course, humans). As they feed, their transfer tube is inserted into the skin of their victims, which can transmit any deadly disease that the mosquito has previously been exposed to. Some of the more common diseases transmitted by mosquitos in Southern Maine are malaria, West Nile virus, yellow fever, and encephalitis. Some of these can cause paralysis or death.
Since mosquitos can be a significant threat to your health, there are a few things you should do (and not do) this summer as you’re enjoying the outdoors. Mosquitos have particular tastes. For example, they are twice as likely to feed on people with Type O blood. They prefer to feed on the nutrient-rich blood of pregnant women. They also tend to attack victims wearing dark colors more often. However, everyone is at risk and should take the following precautions:
- Avoid planning outdoor adventures at dawn and dusk, as mosquitos are most active during these times.
- Limit standing water around your property. An inch or more of standing water, like in pots, fire pits, outdoor decorations, fountains, etc., is the most desired breeding ground for mosquitos.
- Limit the use of heavy perfumes when going outdoors, as these are attractants to mosquitos.
- Your summer shampoo and body lotion should be something unscented. Anything with a strong scent is going to attract more mosquitos.
Professional Protection
While these suggestions can limit your chances of being a mosquito victim, keep in mind that it only takes one bite to incur a deadly disease. When you’re considering serious matters of personal health, it’s much safer to deal in guarantees than in maybes. The best way to keep mosquito populations down around your yard is to partner with the professionals. Fortunately for local residents who deal with this health threat every summer, the friendly pest technicians at Big Blue Bug Solutions have been protecting Southern Maine customers for years. We provide mosquito reduction all season long or can do a one-time treatment for an outdoor event.
Summer activities with your family should be some of the memories we most cherish, but putting your family’s health at risk is not worth it, especially when there’s a convenient and affordable alternative just one call away. Let Big Blue Bug Solutions make your property (nearly) mosquito-free this summer. We are standing by to help.