What are mosquitoes?

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Mosquitoes are flying pests that come into contact with humans in the Phoenix, AZ area, primarily April-October. They are highly dangerous pests due to their resistance against deadly and devastating diseases such as West Nile Virus. As the primary carriers of the West Nile Virus, the likelihood of contracting the virus from a mosquito bite is high in Maricopa County and the surrounding areas. Is there really a way to prevent mosquitoes from living and breeding on your property? The pest management professionals at SOS Exterminating have the answers.

Why are there mosquitoes in my yard?

Mosquitoes breed in stagnant water that you’ll find in lakes or ponds within nature. For homeowners, the problem can still exist without living on a body of water due to the breeding habits mosquitoes perform. Breeding happens when they find water that is undisturbed for the greatest chance of offspring survival. This can be as small as water gathered in a soda bottle cap. Breeding occurs when rain is collected in things on your property, such as bird baths, tires, buckets, playsets, clogged gutters, and flowerpots. If you live near a creek or stream, this can also contribute to mosquito activity on your property.

What is West Nile Virus?

The biggest threat mosquitoes pose to public health is the ability to transmit West Nile Virus. West Nile Virus is spread from an infected bird to a mosquito that feeds upon it. The newly infected mosquito then feeds on another bird, spreading the virus as the cycle continues. Hosts such as dogs, horses, chickens, and humans contract the virus from infected mosquitoes but do not spread the virus. This is why they are considered “dead end hosts.” If you are bitten by a mosquito carrying West Nile Virus, you may not experience any symptoms. In fact, according to the Center for Disease Control, 8 out of 10 infected with West Nile Virus do not develop any symptoms. Others can suffer from headaches, vomiting, diarrhea, joint pains, and body aches. Serious damage to the central nervous system is rare but possible in few individuals. Unfortunately, the Arizona Department of Health Services found that the number of mosquitoes that tested positive for West Nile Virus in a 2019 study was found in the highest concentrations in Maricopa County compared to all counties in Arizona.

How can I prevent mosquitoes at my house?

By eliminating breeding sources around your property, you significantly reduce the chances of mosquitoes in your yard. Keep your yard tidy and free of debris. Inspect your yard. Are there pools of standing water? Dump them immediately and take steps to prevent water from collecting in the future. This could mean repairing or replacing broken downspouts, getting rid of bird baths, and storing emptied buckets in your garage or shed. The main problem with mosquito infestations is that even if you address all of the standing water around your yard, neglect to do so by your neighbors could cause problems in your yard. Without professional pest control, there is no way to guarantee 100% mosquito elimination with DIY tactics.

What is DEET?

You’ve probably heard of DEET as an active ingredient in pest repellent products that are applied directly to your skin or clothing. But what is it really? DEET is a repellent that was developed by the U.S. Army in 1946 for the protection of soldiers in insect-infested areas and became approved for use by the general public in 1957. It’s primarily used in products that are applied directly to the skin or on clothing to repel mosquitoes and ticks in the form of lotions, sprays, roll-ons, and bracelets.

It’s important to know that DEET does not kill mosquitoes and ticks. DEET repels these pests that approach you by creating an invisible barrier around the areas where the product has been applied, making you undetectable to mosquitoes and ticks. Products that contain DEET display the amount of the ingredient by percentage. It’s important to note that higher percentages do not indicate a higher strength of DEET. The amount of DEET within a product dictates how long it will last once applied. For example, a product with 25% DEET will last several hours. However, a product containing 4% DEET will last a much shorter length of time. When applying DEET, it’s important that you follow the instructions to remain safe. Although studies have proven that DEET is safe and effective, it isn’t always the best option for everyone. It’s important that you thoroughly research the options yourself or speak with your doctor to make an informed decision.

How does SOS Exterminating get rid of mosquitoes?

SOS Exterminating can get rid of the mosquitoes on your property with our specialized mosquito service. The treatments are safe for children and pets, environmentally friendly, and highly effective. Call us at 480-571-1473 or fill out the form on this page to set up a free mosquito inspection at your home!