Ga. Ag Commissioner Issues Mosquito Prevention Tips

Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Gary Black is reminding residents about steps to take to prevent and control mosquito problems this summer.

Black said that people should take steps to protect skin from mosquito bites at all times of the day by applying an insect repellant containing at least 20% DEET, picaridin or oil of lemon-eucalyptus.

He said people should also consider wearing long pants, long-sleeved shirts and closed-toe shoes whenever possible.

Also, Black said that mosquito-borne diseases that may be rare in the U.S. are common in many foreign countries, so anyone traveling outside of the country should be aware of travel advisories currently in effect and if a person falls ill upon returning home, seek prompt medical attention.

Finally, Black said homeowners should eliminate areas of standing water around the property such as flowerpots, birdbaths, baby pools and grill covers.

According to Black, mosquitoes need only about a half an inch of water to breed, so it is also recommended to screen all windows and doors, and patch up even the smallest tear.

He said if there are concerns about mosquito activity, contact a licensed pest control company or a local mosquito abatement district.
The Georgia Department of Agriculture is responsible for licensing mosquito control companies and operators who perform mosquito control services. If a contractor is not licensed in mosquito control by the Georgia Department of Agriculture, it is illegal for them to practice mosquito control as a business. There are approximately 450 licensed companies operating in Georgia.