Different Types Of Mosquitoes In Singapore & Effective Ways To Get Rid Of Them
As we are 2 months away from 2022, and the monsoon is expected to progressively set in towards the end of November 2021, early December 2021. We can expect to battle with Dengue alongside Covid. There has never been a more crucial time to learn more about?mosquito control and be prepared for the rise of the Aedes mosquito population in the year-end.
Different Types of Mosquitoes
3 species of mosquitoes that spread life-threatening diseases through their bites that are prevalent in Singapore.
Aedes Mosquitoes: This breed of mosquitoes spread harmful diseases like Zika and Dengue fever. They have black and white stripes on their body. They breed in stagnant waters that are clean and are active at?dusk?and?dawn, approximately from 6-7 am, and 7-8 pm.
Culex Mosquitoes:?This breed of mosquitoes spreads diseases like Japanese B Encephalitis. They are golden brown with dark proboscis. They prefer to breed in dirty and polluted stagnant water like in septic tanks or blocked drains. They are mostly active at night.?
Anopheles Mosquitoes:?This mosquito species spreads diseases like Malaria. They have a light brown body. However, they breed in brackish waters like swamps or sea waters, and are also active at night.
What Makes Mosquitoes More Aggressive?
Mosquitoes find humid and warm climates conducive for breeding which is why many tropical climate regions like Singapore require regular mosquito control.?
Potential environments to breed:?Any region with a humid climate is a potential environment for mosquitoes to breed. Certain types of plants also encourage the breeding of mosquitoes like palm trees, as water collects in the plant axils. Hardened soil also encourages water to form puddles.
Monsoon season:?The monsoon season increases the number of breeding areas significantly as the mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water. More rain means more puddles and more potential for mosquito breeding. It is advisable to also keep all the doors and windows closed when possible, especially?when the Aedes mosquito feeds to keep your family safe. They are most active for?two hours after the sunrise and few hours before the sunset.
Improper Litter Disposal:?Cluttered spaces in your neighbourhood can cause water to collect, which will become breeding spots for mosquitoes.
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Preventive Tips
The first step in the mosquito management system includes preventing mosquitoes from entering one's house and from breeding.?
Clear stagnant water spaces:?Mosquitoes require 7-10 days for breeding, and they can do so with the tiniest available puddle of water. There could be stagnant water in old containers laying around outside, roof gutters or even flowerpots. Thus, it is vital to clear such potential breeding areas regularly so that there is no environment for them to breed.
Mosquito repellents and sprays: Although mosquito repellents and sprays are not a permanent fix, they do help in preventing mosquito bites. Repellents containing DEET (N, N-diethyl-m-toluamide), Picaridin or IR3535 as the active ingredient are the most effective in repelling mosquitoes. The effectiveness of repellents based on plant-based extracts, such as Citronella, Eucalyptus and other essential oils, varies from person to person, and such products usually require more frequent application. Although these can generally provide some protection against biting insects. They are still less effective than those containing DEET, Picaridin, and IR3535.? (Source: https://www.nea.gov.sg/)
Usage of nets and traps:?Utilisation of nets and mosquito traps can be useful and proven to be highly effective in mosquito-infested areas.
Clothing:??While going out, you are highly encouraged to stay away from mosquito-prone areas. It is advisable to wear clothing that has long sleeves and trousers to cover exposed skin from any mosquito bites, especially during active biting hours at?dusk?and?dawn.
Conclusion
More often than not, diseases like Dengue are underestimated. Many forget how life-threatening and serious a mosquito bite can be. This is why a proper?mosquito management system?is required to prevent breeding of mosquitoes. Most of these preventive tips are easy and can be done by yourself, however, it is important to call a professional for thorough mosquito control inspections and treatments, as they can provide recommendations that are unique to your property.