Many people in the suburbs love their backyards for the peace they can provide but unfortunately it's easy making tens of thousands of mosquitoes right at home, especially if you have a bird bath.
"You have to empty it every two to three days just replace the water," said Michael Deutch.
Mosquitoes prefer polluted water which is also found in flower pot pans .
Something else to empty is lawn ornaments.
And how about makeshift toys like tires which are often used as tree swings?
"You tilt it over and water just moves to other side. You need a sponge to dry it out," adds Deutch.
Deutch, with Arrow Exterminating, says he talks to people everyday about how to go to battle against mosquitoes and he also gets hired to do it for them . But warns there isn't a one time quick fix.
Experts say this is more of an integrated management program. People think those bug eater machines might help but it won't do all of the work.
But again- mosquitoes can still be lurking in your gutters and in inconspicuous holes in old trees.
You can do most mosquito proofing on your own. But again, expect it to be tedious. Mosquitoes reproduce fast and while they don't travel far they do travel.
Only females bite, well, technically they suck your blood and leave parasites and other chemicals.
And only male mosquitos make that pesky buzzing noise. So if you hear a buzz, make getting bitten one less thing to worry about as long as its female counterpart isn't there too.
In 2007, Nassau County had two cases with no deaths; in 2006 there were five cases including one death; and in 2005 there were 12 cases with one death. Commissioner of Health Dr. Maria Torroella Carney urges residents to:
To report a mosquito problem, please call the Department of Public Works Mosquito Control at 516-572-1166 weekdays from 7:45 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Residents can hear the latest information about West Nile virus by calling (516) 227-9700. The information is available 24 hours a day. In addition, West Nile information may be found on the Health Department Web site at NassauCountyNY.gov/agencies/health/
How to Reduce Exposure to Mosquitoes:
The Health Department's Web site has up-to-date information and maps on mosquito activity.
For more information:
National Library of Medicine: West Nile Virus
KidsHealth: What is West Nile Virus?
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WEB PRODUCED BY: Bill King