Communicable Disease Control
Mosquito Information
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Information Regarding Mosquitoes and West Nile Virus
Mosquito larvae can mature to adult mosquitoes in as little as three days in stagnant water and favorable weather conditions. An abandoned spa, fountain or pool that does not have an operating filtration system creates conditions that favor mosquito breeding.
There are multiple reasons for treating fountain pools and spa water with sanitizing chemicals which prevent the growth of bacteria and algae, which causes a foul smell and untidy appearance. Chlorine concentrations of 3 ppm (parts per million) are recommended for most swimming pools.
Where to Look and What To Do
Ornamental Pond
Stock with Mosquito Fish. Avoid spraying with garden insect sprays. Remove leaves and thin out pond lilies. Keep water level up. Screen inlet of recirculation pump. Chlorine kills fish - transfer fish to glass bowl when cleaning pond. If pond is no longer desired, break holes in bottom and fill with dirt or sand.Concrete or Plastic Swimming Pool
Operate filter and skimmer every day to remove egg rafts and larva. Provide drainage for filer and pump sumps. Chlorine will NOT kill mosquito larva. If a pool cover is used, keep it tightly sealed. Remove rain water from top of pool cover. Stock unused or "out-of-order" pools with Mosquito Fish.Plastic Wading Pools
Change the water every week. Store indoors when on vacation. Store indoors when not in use. One local pool supplies store advises to change water daily.Boats
Prevent accumulation of bilge water. Store small boats up-side down or cover to keep out the rain and irrigation water from your sprinklers.Animal Water Troughs
Stock large troughs with Mosquito Fish. Clean small troughs every week.Containers of All Sorts
Remove and dispose of all unused containers that will collect rain water or irrigation water from your sprinklers. Tin Cans, Old Tires, Jars, Buckets, Barrels, Tubs, etc. Home gardener rooting plant cuttings in vases, buckets, etc. should change water every week. Usable containers should be stacked up-side down. Also look for other standing water under the house. Repair leaking plumbing. Prevent seepage from garden irrigation. Divert storm water away from foundations. Check for standing water in vaults for water softening tank, vaults for house utility meters and at drain outlet from air.
