SALT LAKE CITY — With warmer temperatures arriving in Salt Lake City, mosquito season is getting an early start this year. Experts with the Salt Lake City Mosquito Abatement District are already witnessing increased activity and urge residents to take precautions.
Michele Rehbein, the district's education specialist, says early mosquitoes can be aggressive.
"We are seeing a few people contact us. Personally, I've also seen some of these early-season mosquitoes just flying around and buzzing around me," Rehbein said.
Mosquitoes typically emerge in the spring and multiply quickly as heat and moisture create ideal breeding conditions. Early season insects may be irritating, and Rehbein recommends using EPA-approved repellents and wearing long sleeves when spending time outdoors.
Abatement crews are monitoring mosquito populations by placing traps in neighborhoods and wetlands, treating standing water and targeting areas for spraying if numbers rise. While early mosquitoes are primarily a nuisance, experts warn that later in the season, some species can carry diseases such as West Nile virus and Saint Louis encephalitis, which are most active in July and August.
Residents can protect themselves by wearing protective clothing and using repellents containing DEET, picaridin, lemon oil or eucalyptus oil. Experts will continue monitoring mosquito activity throughout the season to reduce risks for the community.
Photos
Most recent Health stories
Related topics
Tyrese Boone
