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1. Why do we need mosquito control programs?

Without control programs the mosquito population would flourish and cause potential health and comfort problems. From a health standpoint, mosquitoes are known carriers of encephalitis, malaria and the yellow fever and dengue viruses. Mosquito-borne diseases cause more than one million deaths each year around the world. Mosquito bites can also infect a pet with the deadly canine heartworm.

2. How can we best control mosquito breeding?

By identifying their breeding sites and preventing the larvae from maturing to adults. Preventing larval development into adult mosquitoes can be accomplished by eliminating breeding sites. Check for standing water around your home and neighborhood. Dump the water out or notify Environmental Health at 512-393-8440 for treatment in the case of larger bodies of water.

3. Is it necessary to spray for adult mosquitoes in populated areas?

Yes. An integrated program involves stopping mosquitoes in both the larval and adult stages. Mosquitoes can travel several miles, which can override local larval control efforts. This can then result in the need for adult mosquito control.

4. Are the insecticides being used for controlling mosquitoes dangerous?

No. Insecticides are the most rigorously tested of all chemicals. They meet stringent standards before they are registered for use by the Environmental Protection Agency. When properly used by trained professionals, insecticides do their job and biodegrade quickly.

5. Are there methods other than the use of insecticides for controlling mosquitoes?

Various control methods are constantly under review. One effective approach involves the use of mosquito fish, which can be stocked in mosquito breeding sites to feed upon the larvae. Incidentally, studies have shown that many homeowner methods such as bug zappers, bird and bat houses and citronella plants eliminate only a very small percentage of the mosquito population. In fact, many beneficial insects suffer the effects of these devices as well.

6. What are bed bugs?

Bed bugs are small, wingless insects that have not been known to transmit disease. Adult bed bugs have flat, oval shaped bodies. They are between 1 to 7 millimeters in length (about the size of an apple seed). The size of an adult bed bug varies, because their bodies become larger after a blood meal. After eating they change to a reddish color. Bed bugs are usually active at night and bite humans and animals while they are sleeping. They can live several months without feeding.

7. Where are bed bugs found?

Bed bugs can be found anywhere, such as houses, apartments, group living situations, hospitals, hotels/motels, and public transportation vehicles. These places have areas where people sleep or spend significant amounts of time. Their usual hiding places are in seams of mattresses, box springs, bed frames, and along and/or directly behind headboards. Once a bed bug population multiplies, they can be found: behind baseboards; in cracks and crevices in furniture, floors, or walls; under cluttered areas; and in electronic appliances. A bed bug infestation is apparent by noticing black or brown spots (which are their waste products) on surfaces. The eggs, egg shells, and exoskeletons of the bed bugs can be found in their hiding places as well.

8. How are bed bugs transported?

Because bed bugs can be found in homes and a variety of public places, they can easily be transported from place to place by people. They can hide in the seams of luggage and in the folds of clothing. They can also be transported in furniture.

9. Can bed bugs make you sick?

Bed bugs are not known to transmit disease, but many people have mild to severe allergic reactions to the bites. Bed bug bite marks usually appear on the face, neck, arms, hands, but can appear on other body parts. The marks are slightly swollen, red areas that can itch or be irritating.

10. How can I get rid of bed bugs?

It usually takes multiple visits by licensed pest control operator who has experience in elimination of bed bugs. Please seek the advice of a licensed pest control operator for treatment options. Over the counter foggers and pesticides will not eliminate bed bugs.

11. Is there effective treatment for bed bug bites?

If you are experiencing bed bug bites and feel that you are having an allergic reaction, please contact your physician. Topical antihistamine or anti-inflammatory medication may provide relief