Mosquitoes

This year promises to be a big year for mosquitoes and the problems they bring. West Nile Virus is well established in all parts of Connecticut by now and residents should take precautions both to reduce mosquito breeding where they live and protect themselves from mosquito bites. Simple precautions to reduce mosquito breeding can greatly reduce mosquito populations in many areas. The late summer and early fall are the times of the year that represent the greatest risks for acquiring West Nile Virus, but there is risk any time mosquitoes are present.

The Madison Health Department oversees a Mosquito Control Program, part of which is the use of larvicide to control breeding cycles in salt marsh areas in town. A detailed description of the program as well as other information on mosquito control and West Nile Virus is located on the Health Department section of this website. The town rarely sprays insecticide to control adult mosquito populations and does not treat fresh water breeding areas.

Precautions

Precautions to avoid mosquito bites include:

  • Minimize time outdoors at dusk and dawn.
  • Be sure door and window screens are tight fitting and in good repair.
  • Wear shoes, socks, long pants, and long-sleeved shirts. Clothing material should be tightly woven.
  • Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors.
  • Consider using mosquito repellent containing DEET when it is necessary to be outdoors and always use them according to label instructions.

Resident Actions

Residents are urged to take the following measures to reduce mosquito populations around the home:

  • Dispense of water-holding containers, such as ceramic pots, used tires, tire swings.
  • Drill holes in the bottom of containers such as those used for recycling.
  • Clean clogged roof gutters.
  • Turn over objects that may trap water when not in use such as wading pools and wheelbarrows.
  • Change water in bird baths on a weekly basis.
  • Clean and chlorinate swimming pools, and when not in use, cover pools.
  • Use landscaping techniques to eliminate areas where water can collect on your property.

More Information