We've been itching to tell you this...

Jen Lawrence
May 25
4 min read

Mosquito Season is upon us again and it seems worse than ever because of our unusually wet winter and spring.

Deschutes County does not provide mosquito control, but they have provided this information that you might find helpful, including the link to Four Rivers Vector Control who serves our area.

If you have a mosquito concern/complaint, you can report it on their website (see link at the end of this email). Please note that they are not able to control mosquitoes outside of the boundaries of their district, and they won't do "on-demand" spraying; however the more reports the better they can target problem areas.

Some mosquitoes can spread viruses like West Nile that make people sick. Some mosquitoes are nuisance mosquitoes that bite people but do not spread disease. Everyone can play a role in controlling mosquitoes.

Mosquitoes

There are over 3,000 different species of mosquitoes throughout the world; currently 176 species are recognized in the United States. Each mosquito species has a Latin scientific name, such as one of the main mosquitoes found in Central Oregon, Aedes vexans. Aedes is the "generic" name of a group of closely related mosquitoes and vexans is the "species" name that represents a group of individuals that are similar in structure and physiology and capable of interbreeding. These names are used in a descriptive manner so that the name tells something about each particular mosquito.

Mosquito Diseases

Whether you live out in the country, in the city or in a suburban neighborhood, you may be bothered by mosquitoes. Besides being annoying pests, some mosquitoes can transmit diseases to humans and domestic animals. There are two main mosquito-borne diseases of concern in Deschutes County.

West Nile Virus

West Nile Virus (WNv) is traditionally found in parts of Asia, eastern Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. The virus was first detected in the United States in 1999 in New York City. Since then, it has spread across the North American continent. In Deschutes County, WNv was first detected in 2006.

In nature, birds are typically the primary reservoir host for WNv. When a mosquito bites an infected bird, it can spread the virus to other birds, people, and mammals, such as horses, that it bites. People, horses, and other mammals are “dead end hosts”, meaning they cannot spread the virus any further. WNv is usually associated with mild flu-like symptoms but, in rare cases, it can cause encephalitis, or inflammation of the brain. WNv can be fatal when this occurs.

Western equine encephalitis

Western equine encephalitis (WEE) is a viral disease that circulates naturally in birds and can be transmitted to horses and people through the bite of an infected mosquito. Most human cases are associated with a sudden onset of symptoms like fever, headache, muscle stiffness, and vomiting. However, WEE can potentially cause swelling of the brain, resulting in numerous long-lasting neurological conditions or death. There is no cure for WEE in humans so supportive care is the only option once infection occurs.

In horses, the mortality rate for WEE infections is about 20-40%. Symptoms include lethargy, staggering, recumbency, walking in circles, seizures, and various other neurological conditions. There is no cure for WEE in horses, but a preventative vaccine is available. Good vector control practices are also crucial for preventing WEE. Practices such as using repellents, keeping horses inside at night when mosquitoes are most active, and eliminating mosquito breeding sources will help reduce WEE risk.

Protect Yourself

If you know something about where mosquitoes lay their eggs, how they live, and what can be done to prevent and control them, you will be able to reduce the number of mosquitoes in and around your home.

Remember the 3 Ds of Mosquito Prevention!

DRAIN – Most of a mosquito’s life cycle takes place near or in water so check around your home for sources of standing water and eliminate them.

DRESS – Loose fitting, long-sleeved shirts and pants make it more difficult for a mosquito to bite you. Socks and shoes are helpful since some mosquitoes like to bite around the ankles. Light colored clothing also tends to be less attractive to mosquitoes.

DEFEND – Use an insect repellent containing an EPA approved ingredient such as DEET or Picaridin. Organic alternatives include citrus oil, eucalyptus, and citronella. Always follow label directions!

Are you raising mosquitoes? Consider these common breeding areas and how to get rid of them.

Mosquito sources and what to do:

Containers of various sorts: Empty or dispose of containers

Ponds: Stock with Mosquito Fish and remove excess vegetation

Irrigated Lawns and Fields: Avoid over irrigation and drain standing areas

Bird baths: Change water frequently

Swimming Pools: Use filter regularly, when not in use, empty or cover tightly

Roof gutters: Clean frequently to remove blockage

Open ditches: Drain to stream or channel system or other outlet

Tires: Empty water inside

Here are some tips for protecting yourself from mosquitoes: