Around 1,700 cases of malaria are reported annually, and most of them are from returning travelers and immigrants. Though there are no known active transmission cases in the U.S., it’s still best to stay protected against virus-carrying mosquitoes.
Mosquito or insect repellent is the most common solution to control mosquitoes and other biting insects, but these methods alone are not enough to prevent all of them from biting you. In this post, your local windows company, Renewal by Andersen® of St. Louis, shares how you can protect you and your family against mosquito-borne diseases.
Get Rid of Mosquito Habitats
Make sure there’s no standing water in rain gutters, old tires, buckets, plastic covers or anywhere mosquitoes can breed. At least once a week, change the water in bird baths, fountains, rain barrels and plant trays. Swimming pool water should be circulating and continuously treated. Once all potential habitats are eliminated, use an effective repellent to control and eliminate adult mosquitoes.
Avoid Bites
Wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants and socks to prevent exposure to bites. Stay inside as much as possible, especially if there’s a mosquito-borne illness going around. Wear head nets and clothing with less skin exposure when entering areas with a high mosquito population. Outdoor yellow “bug” lights, though not mosquito repellents, tend to attract fewer mosquitoes.
Use Structural Barriers
Cover gaps in walls, windows and walls, or install bug screens on your doors and windows to prevent mosquitoes from entering your home. If you have existing door screens, make sure they are working properly. It will also help to use netting on baby carriers and beds.
Invest in high-quality replacement windows and doors to stay protected against mosquitoes and other disease-transmitting insects. At Renewal by Andersen of St. Louis, we are your leading provider of windows and doors. Call us at (314) 332-2364 or complete our online form for a free consultation. We work with homeowners in Chesterfield, MO, and other areas around Missouri.
