Mosquitoes have become an increasing problem around Los Angeles recently. They are not just annoying–mosquitoes sometimes carry West Nile Virus. This disease is responsible for dozens of hospitalizations and several deaths in Los Angeles County each year.

The good news is that mosquito bites are preventable. But because mosquitoes can travel up to a mile, this is a team effort. We can only get rid of mosquitoes if we all work together. Also, the Los Angeles County West Vector Control District is always willing to evaluate your property for mosquitoes and provide solutions–for FREE!

Prevent mosquitoes from breeding

Mosquitoes can breed in as little as a single teaspoon of water that sits for three days or more, indoors or outdoors. Some species’ eggs can even stay dormant in dry places for a few years, then come to life once water returns.

Please inspect your house and yard for standing water and drain it if you can. Here are five locations to check:

  1. Dog bowls inside or outside–swap out water twice a week
  2. Rain barrels—should be screened with mesh; drain or use the water; call Vector Control to treat with an anti-mosquito material not commercially available
  3. Bins, pots, containers, old toys, tires, BBQs—should be covered or turned over
  4. Street gutters (area between the street and parkway)—if you have standing water from your sprinklers that doesn’t get absorbed into your landscaping you should drain it and adjust your watering
  5. Fountains and bird baths—Fountains should circulate and also have mosquito dunks to prevent breeding. You can get these by having a Vector Control technician visit your property (lasts approx. 3 months)

Here is more guidance from the LA County Vector Control experts.

Don’t get bitten

Here are steps to avoid getting bitten:

  • Ensure that your windows have tight fitting screens with no damage
  • If you are outside around dawn or dusk, when mosquitoes are mostly biting, use a repellent with 5-30% DEET or wear long sleeves, long pants and socks.

FAQ

Do mosquitos die off in the winter?

No! In our climate, mosquitos live year-round. But in colder weather, the reproduction cycle is much slower, so there are fewer mosquitos.

Is our mosquito situation now worse than before?

Yes! Several new mosquito species have come to Southern California in recent years, so we are definitely seeing more in absolute numbers and in their persistence.

I can’t go without my plant saucers and fountain, which have standing water. Is there something I can use to prevent mosquitos?

Yes! There are granules and tablets for fountains or other standing water priced from around $10. These contain bacteria that only affect mosquito larvae, so they are not toxic to other animals or wildlife. This product is what the Vector Control District uses in its treatments.

If you need more help or would like treatment for fountains, rain barrels, or bird baths, schedule an appointment with the Vector Control District at (310) 915-7370.