With the return of warmer weather and spring rain, residents can also expect the return of mosquitoes.
Milford kicks off its mosquito control measures today, Wednesday, April 18, with All Habitat Services monitoring the wetlands habitats in Milford and treating the marshy areas throughout the city. Next on the list are the storm drains and catch basins.
The primary focus of the Milford Health Department’s program is prevention through mosquito breeding site reduction, especially in densely populated areas, and education about personal protection, according to the city’s health department. Mosquito control efforts early in the season can decrease the risk of human transmission of West Nile Virus (WNV) and other vector borne associated diseases.
“Monitoring mosquitoes and applying larvicide treatments to key breeding sites in Milford greatly reduces the number of adult mosquitoes” said Deepa Joseph, Milford’s Director of Health. “Mosquito control activities combined with taking appropriate personal prevention measures is the best way to avoid mosquito bites.”
In June, the CT Agricultural Experiment Station will begin mosquito monitoring throughout Connecticut to identify, trap and test insects for early detection of West Nile Virus, Eastern Equine Encephalitis, as well as monitoring for Zika virus. Mosquito trapping is conducted daily from June through October at 91 permanent locations throughout the state with two locations in Milford.
“With spring rains and warmer weather finally upon us, residents can expect to see more mosquito activity,” said Mayor Ben Blake. “The mosquito control program utilizes a comprehensive approach to protecting our residents from mosquito-borne diseases and reducing the negative impact of nuisance mosquitoes on outdoor activities.”
The Milford Health Department advises residents to follow the 3 D’s for protection: Drain or dump any standing water that may produce mosquitoes, including in ceramic pots, used tires, tree holes and other cavities in plants.
Dress correctly: Wear light colored, loose fitting clothing. When practical, wear long sleeves and pants.
Defend against mosquito bites by using a mosquito repellent that has been registered by the Environmental Protection Agency, such as DEET, Picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus.
For additional prevention tips or more information, visit the Milford Health Department website at ci.milford.ct.us/environmental-health-division/pages/mosquito-control. To report unusual numbers of mosquitoes, contact the Milford Health Department at 203-783-3287.