As West Nile Virus spreads across the United States, the concern in controlling the mosquito population is increasing. Mosquito control and protection is the best defense against West Nile Virus. It is difficult to kill adult mosquitoes and the use of pesticides can have harmful environmental effects if not used correctly. Acting State Epidemiologist for the State of Kansas Dr. Gail Hansen says there are a variety of effective tools for mosquito control. It is best that mosquito populations are managed in an environmentally conscious way which also fits in with a larger pest management effort. Controlling mosquito breeding areas and killing immature mosquitoes allow the use of biological methods without jeopardizing non-pests and beneficial organisms. By decreasing the number of breeding grounds, the number of mosquitoes will consequently decrease.
Female mosquitoes that carry WNV lay their eggs in standing, stagnant water. The larvae usually hatch within 48 hours and live in the water for the life stages between egg and adult mosquito. By eliminating unnecessary areas of standing water and treating larger bodies of water, mosquito breeding grounds will greatly decrease, helping to control the population of adult mosquitoes.
For more information about West Nile Virus and preventing infection go to www.oznet.ksu.edu/westnilevirus.