Take Winter Anti-Mosquito Precautions

If you find yourself doing a little more scratching this time of year, it could be that those pesky biting insects associated with warmer days are already sinking their proboscises into you.

According to the National Weather Service many places have seen record warm temperatures in both January and February.

“Our current mild winter and recent unseasonably warm temperatures are beginning to make overwintering mosquitoes restless,” said John Hopkins, extension entomologist with the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture. “The probability of an early awakening will give the mosquito population a headstart toward building higher population levels later in the season.”

To help minimize the aggravation and potential disease threat from these biting insects, Hopkins advised taking actions that most people would normally do during the rainy spring.

Regularly drain standing water, including water collecting in empty cans, tires, buckets, clogged rain gutters and saucers under potted plants.

When it comes to protecting yourself outside, use a repellent – being sure to read the active ingredient list and closely follow label directions.

“When mosquitoes are present, wear long-sleeved clothing and protect yourself with an insect repellent that contains DEET, picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or paramenthane-diol,” he said.

“Finally, make sure door, porch and window screens are in good condition to prevent mosquitoes from entering your home,” Hopkins said.