Summer’s coming—so are the skeeters

On May 7, Butte County Mosquito and Vector Control District began aerial surveillance of unmaintained swimming pools and other standing-water havens for mosquitoes to breed in, such as unused tires and boats.

“It is crucial to locate these mosquito-breeding sources early in the mosquito season so that the District’s mosquito and vector-control specialists can eliminate early-season mosquitoes to prevent larger populations in the summer, when [West Nile] virus is most active,” said Matt Ball, the district’s manager.

Along those lines, here are some more tips to further protect oneself:

• Avoid the outdoors in the early morning and early evening, when mosquitoes are most active.

• Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants, socks and shoes.

• Use some type of insect repellent.

• Remove standing water every three to five days from bird baths, buckets, pet dishes, etc.

• Making sure windows and doors have tight-fitting screens to keep mosquitoes out.

Report mosquito-breeding areas and mosquito problems to the district at 342-7350 or 533-6038. Go to www.bcmvcd.com to learn more.