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By Whitney Wyatt/The Red River Sun—
CHILDRESS – Mosquitos are more than just a buzzing nuisance; they’re responsible for the transmission of numerous viruses.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there is no data to suggest this new coronavirus or other similar coronaviruses are spread by mosquitoes or ticks. While this is reassuring, Mosquito Control Awareness Week is June 21-27 and a good time to go over tips from the Extension Office.
Childress County Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Family and Community Health Agent Dawn Dockter shared the 4-Ds to help control mosquitos.
Drain or Dump
Remove any standing water. Even small amounts of water, especially when combined with organic materials, like leaves or dirt, provide a great place for mosquito larvae to grow and develop. Scummy pools and birdbaths are ideal places to grow mosquitos, but do not forget to check buckets, tires and anything that can act as a receptacle for water.
Day, Dusk and Dark
Despite what some say, mosquitos are capable of biting at any time of day or night, making other precautions even more important. Mosquitos are capable of biting when the temperature rises above 55 degrees F.
Dress
While it is likely warm outdoors in Texas, it is important to cover up to limit a mosquito’s opportunity to bite. Wear long pants and longsleeve shirts when outdoors. A tight weave of cloth is recommended as mosquitos might be able to bite through loosely woven fabric.
DEET
Use a mosquito-repellant containing DEET or one of the following ingredients: IR3535, Picaridin or oil of eucalyptus (paramenthane-3, 8-diol). There are numerous repellants on the market that do not contain any of these ingredients.
For additional information, contact the Childress County Extension Office at 940-937-2351. For a hub of Extension-related resources related to the COVID-19 situation, visit https://agrilifeextension.tamu.edu/coronavirus/.
