The flooding and high waters in British Columbia have allowed summer fun’s worst enemy - the mosquito - to flourish in the warm and wet weather.
The increase in standing water has presented mosquitoes with the perfect environment for reproduction, which takes place in water. Even very small bodies of water can be a breeding ground for the insect.
With more mosquitoes, Interior Health warns, there is a higher risk for West Nile virus, especially in the warmer months.
Despite very few cases of West Nile virus in Canada, there have been five reported human cases in B.C. in the last decade.
As the flood waters begin to recede the mosquito population is expected to return to normal.
Until then, Interior Health has some recommendations to deter the pests from peppering your body with irritative and itchy bumps.
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Prevent mosquito breeding around your residence. Mosquitoes don’t require much time or water to develop eggs into adults. Remove potential breeding areas from your property, such as empty saucers under flower pots, clogged rain gutters and areas that may trap water such as tarps and tires. You can also change bird bath water bi-weekly to reduce mosquito presence.
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Install screens on windows.
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Cover exposed skin with bright, loose-fitting clothing.
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Avoid outdoor activities when mosquitoes are most prominent - dusk and dawn.
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Use mosquito repellent.
