The Dangers of Mosquito and Tick-Borne Diseases
This summer, you want to get outside and enjoy some time in your yard or doing outdoor activities. But as soon as you step out the door, you’re swatting away mosquitoes and constantly checking yourself for ticks. The nuisance and threat of mosquito and tick-borne diseases like West Nile virus, Zika, Lyme disease, and Rocky Mountain spotted fever are enough to make anyone want to stay inside. But don’t let the bugs win. There are several highly effective pest control and repellent treatments you can use to stop the bite and protect your home and family. By taking a few proactive steps, you can create a barrier between you and these disease-carrying pests so you can have an enjoyable, stress-free season outside. Here’s what you need to know to find proper pest home defense treatments.
Preventing Mosquito and Tick Bites Around Your Home
The diseases spread by mosquitoes and ticks can be downright scary. West Nile virus, Zika, chikungunya, and dengue are transmitted by mosquitoes and can cause symptoms like fever, rash, and joint pain. Ticks carry Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and ehrlichiosis, which often start with a fever and rash but can lead to long-term joint inflammation and neurological issues if left untreated.
These illnesses are no joke. Some like West Nile virus can be deadly, especially for older adults and people with weakened immune systems. Zika, while usually mild, can cause severe birth defects if contracted by pregnant women. The good news is, there are effective ways for homeowners to reduce disease-carrying pests in their area.
Start by eliminating standing water where mosquitoes breed. Clear out gutters, birdbaths, pet bowls, and any containers holding water. For ticks, mow your lawn regularly and clear brush or leaf litter where they hide. You’ll also want to apply an EPA-registered insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus when outside.
Permethrin spray can be used on clothing, shoes, camping gear, and other fabrics to repel and kill both mosquitoes and ticks. For severe infestations, professional pest control companies offer yard treatments that can help reduce populations for up to 4-6 weeks. By taking proactive measures to control these disease vectors in and around your home, you’ll breathe easier knowing your family is at lower risk of infection.
Top Pest Home Defense Treatments for Protection Against Mosquitoes and Ticks
To protect your home and family from mosquito and tick-borne diseases, take steps to control these pests in your yard.
Remove standing water
Mosquitoes need standing water to breed, so eliminate any areas where water can collect, like pet bowls, gutters, birdbaths, and kiddie pools. Change water in pet bowls daily and drain or treat stagnant ponds.
Use pesticides and repellents
Apply pesticides containing permethrin, bifenthrin or deltamethrin around the yard, especially in shady, damp areas. Spray these chemicals on grass, bushes, and the perimeter of the house. You can also treat outdoor furniture, play equipment, and building foundations.
For personal protection, apply insect repellent with DEET, picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus before going outside. Reapply as directed to deter mosquitoes and ticks.
Clear yard debris
Rake leaves, clear brush, and mow the lawn regularly since mosquitoes and ticks hide in overgrown vegetation. Trim shrubs and cut grass short, especially around foundations and play areas.
Schedule regular inspections
Do regular tick checks on yourself, children and pets if you’ve been outside in wooded or brushy areas. Shower soon after coming indoors to wash off any ticks. Check the yard for standing water, holes or cracks leading into the home, and treat or eliminate access points.
With vigilance and an integrated pest management approach, you can reduce mosquitoes and ticks around your home. Take action today to protect your family’s health this season.
