Monsoon moisture brings more than humidity – it brings more mosquitoes
PALM DESERT, CALIF. (KESQ)- The Coachella Valley is seeing monsoon moisture, and many people welcome the clouds and chance of rain, the extra moisture can also create ideal conditions for mosquitoes.
Experts say even small amounts of standing water left behind after rain or watering can become breeding grounds, increasing the risk of mosquito bites and potentially West Nile virus.
Dr. Bradley Jacoby, Chief of Pediatrics at Kaiser Permanente says, "When it comes to mosquito bites, most of them are pretty harmless... They're definitely an annoyance, very itchy, and can be a little bit a little bit uncomfortable at times."
Doctors say there are warning signs people shouldn't ignore... "Headaches, neck stiffness, altered mental status. So if somebody is not acting normally the way that they do, then that's when you'd want to go ahead and get that evaluated" said Dr. Jacoby.
Many ask why are mosquitos biting in the first place... "The mosquitoes will bite you because they need the blood on the humans to get that protein. So females can keep laying down eggs", said Jose Aguilar from technician renegade pest control.
Pest control experts say that added humidity can also help mosquitos survive longer. "The humidity helps them for the lifespan to live longer. That gives him more time to be around, bite more and be a little bit more annoying" said Aguilar.
How can people prevent getting bit?
Always use repellent, the bugs are going to stay away from the repellent and they're not going to bite people.
A Coachella valley resident told me he cant really go outside unless he actually have mosquito reppelent on.
How to Protect Your Yard and Home
Eliminate Stagnant Water: Check yards thoroughly after storms. Empty, scrub, or toss anything holding water- including gutters, buckets, toys, and plant saucers.
Maintain Vegetation: Mosquitoes rest in tall grass and dense foliage during the day. Keep landscaping trimmed.
Block Entry Points: Ensure window screens are sealed tight, and use patio or balcony screens for outdoor areas.
Apply Repellent: Use EPA- registered insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus
