Miami-Dade Department of Solid Waste offers summertime tips for mosquito control

Mosquito season is in full swing in Miami-Dade County, and residents are encouraged to take proactive steps now to reduce mosquito breeding, prevent mosquito bites, and help protect against mosquito-borne illnesses. Temperatures are soaring, rainfall is frequent, and mosquito populations are booming. The Miami-Dade Department of Solid Waste Management’s (DSWM) Mosquito Control Division stands ready to assist and provide relief through its integrated pest management program.

Frequently checking for and eliminating any standing water found is the best protection against container-breeding mosquitoes, which are the likeliest species to transmit the viruses that cause dengue, chikungunya, Zika, and yellow fever. Standing water can accumulate after rainfall or irrigation in everyday items such as potted planters and saucers, outdoor toys, boat or car tarps, coolers, and the like.

"Protecting the health and well-being of our residents remains one of Miami-Dade County’s highest priorities," said Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava. "Mosquito prevention starts at home, and by taking a few simple precautions, residents can help reduce mosquito populations, protect their families, and support a healthier, safer community throughout the summer season."

Applying an EPA-registered mosquito repellent with DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR-3535 as the active ingredient is your best protection against mosquito bites. Repellent should be applied after sunscreen and before spending extended periods outdoors, particularly during the hours between dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.

"As always, our Mosquito Control Division is prepared to deliver excellence every day this summer to residents and commercial interests throughout the County," said DSWM Director Aneisha Daniel, PhD. "Protecting public health, enhancing quality of life, and helping keep our communities safe are central to our mission. We continue to urge residents to drain and cover to fight the bite, and to be sure to use the County's 311 Contact Center to report mosquito issues and request inspection services."

Mosquito inspections are generally conducted within one to two business days of request and are available at no additional cost.

"This is our busiest time of the year, and Miami-Dade County's mosquito control professionals continuously monitor local mosquito populations, identify species, inspect and treat homes and businesses as needed, and educate residents about mosquitoes,"  said Mosquito Control Division Chief John-Paul Mutebi.

The division is once again observing National Mosquito Week this week with a number of themed social media posts and online events. Click here to learn more and RSVP on the official Miami-Dade Mosquito Control Facebook page.

Here are some additional tips to help combat mosquitoes this summer:

•    Cover windows, doors, porches, and patios with a fine mesh screen, and ensure they are maintained in a good state of repair
•    Wear long-sleeved and loose-fit clothing whenever possible to maximize skin protection
•    Periodically clean out rain gutters to keep them from clogging up and pooling water
•    Fill lawn indentations, air conditioner drain areas, and tree holes with sand to prevent water from accumulating
•    Periodically use a granular larvicide containing Bti in bromeliads, and dunk form in fountains or decorative ponds
•    Replace the water in outdoor pet dishes and birdbaths regularly to disrupt the mosquito life cycle
•    Use the county’s online 311 Contact Center web portal to request a mosquito inspection online at miamidade.gov/mosquitoinspection 24/7

Download and install the MDC Solid Waste mobile app for Android and iPhone and use it to request an inspection. Visit miamidade.gov/mosquito for more information about mosquito control services and additional Miami-Dade County resources.