Heavy rainfall, warm weather and rapid snowmelt resulted in major flooding throughout BC this spring; however, high water from the flooding has created the ideal conditions for mosquitoes to flourish.
Now, parts of the interior are experiencing much higher than average numbers of the pests. What’s more, the Lower Mainland hasn’t been hit yet, but The Interior Health Authority warns about this impending season.
For one, West Nile Virus is transmitted by mosquitoes breeding in areas with standing water. As such, any areas that facilitate this process, such as lakes, ponds, and bird baths, will be harder hit.
In addition, an aggressive species known as the inland floodwater mosquito is active and flourishing.
Since the larvae require water to reach adulthood, the insects won’t flourish if they are killed in this stage. With that being said, it is difficult to do this, and once they mature, they are nearly impossible to manage.
RELATED: Vancouver Ranks Third For Bed Bugs In Canadian Cities
BC Mosquitoes
In order to prevent getting bit, it is recommended that you wear long sleeves and stay out of the shade. Eating garlic is a natural way to deter the creatures, as well as wearing light coloured clothing. Moreover, drinking alcohol may actually attract them.
Of course, wearing a DEET based repellent is the ultimate way to keep the insects at bay. It is also a good idea to remove any standing water in your home or backyard, as these are ideal breeding grounds.
You may want to sleep under a mosquito net to keep the pests of your body while you sleep.
[sjnow-ad-large-leaderboard]
