As the weather warms in Orange County, a familiar foe returns to nighttime and and outdoor activities: mosquitoes! These tiny insects cause annoying, itchy bites, but they can also be related to troublesome medical problems.
Mosquito season spreads several diseases, such as the West Nile virus that can pose a threat to the public. To ensure public safety during this upcoming mosquito season, officials in Orange County issue periodic warnings about the impact of heat and mosquito activity, while also encouraging community participation in control operations.
Why Will This Year Be a More Serious Mosquito Season?
2023 is projected to be a bad one for mosquitoes due to the influence of heat on mosquito populations.
Mosquitoes depend on their surroundings to maintain a consistent body temperature as ectothermic beings. Their metabolic rates rise with warmer temperatures, causing more rapid growth and reproduction. The heat speeds up their life cycle, allowing them to quickly develop from eggs to adults.
To lay their eggs, mosquitoes need stagnant water, and warmer temperatures encourage the growth of microorganisms. Hence, this year is expected to be the worst mosquito season in many years due to the combined effects of heat and recent rains.
Stay Bite-Free: Essential Tips to Protect Yourself in Mosquitoes Season
Here are the easiest ways to avoid mosquito bites when enjoying outdoor leisure in Orange County:
- Remove Stagnant Water
Eliminating any standing water around your property is vital to prevent mosquito breeding. Empty or cover containers like flower pots, buckets, and birdbaths as mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water. Make sure rain gutters and downspouts are clear and unobstructed to avoid water buildup. Removing these potential breeding sites can significantly diminish the risk of mosquito-borne diseases.
- Deter Mosquito Bites with a Repellent
Mosquito repellents contain ingredients like DEET or essential oils that drive-off mosquitoes, making it harder for mosquitoes to land and bite. Apply the repellent evenly on exposed skin and clothing.
- Limit Your Outdoor Errands
From dusk to dawn, be extra vigilant. Mosquitoes are most active when the sun is low on the horizon, and are looking for blood meals. Consider staying indoors or limiting your exposure during these hours.
- Be Less Attractive to Mosquitoes
To be less attractive to mosquitoes, avoid using heavily scented perfumes or lotions that can attract them. Opt for light-colored clothing, as mosquitoes are drawn to darker colors. Additionally, try to stay cool and dry, as sweating increases the production of chemicals that attract mosquitoes.
- Keep Your Surroundings Clean
Trim any overgrown vegetation, get rid of trash, and clean up any dirt. Mosquitoes prefer congested settings and regions with standing water. Regular upkeep and cleanliness limit possible breeding areas, lowering the danger of mosquito infestations.
- Use Protective Clothing
Wearing protective gear enables you to avoid getting bitten by mosquitoes. You can put a physical barrier between your skin and mosquitoes by wearing long sleeves, long trousers, and socks. This decreases the quantity of exposed skin, lowering the danger of mosquito bites and the potential transfer of malaria-related diseases.
Visit FCCMG Today to overcome Mosquito-related Diseases
As the worst mosquito season in years approaches, you can take precautions to protect yourself and your loved ones from the risks associated with mosquito bites.
However, if you or someone in your family experiences mosquito bite symptoms, such as itching, redness, or swelling, seek immediate care at one of our urgent care clinics in Irvine Woodbridge Urgent Care, Fountain Valley Urgent Care, and Costa Mesa Urgent Care. At FCCMG, our experienced and board-certified providers will offer prompt diagnosis and treatment options.
