Harris County officials urge residents to eliminate standing water and take precautions as mosquito season intensifies.
HARRIS COUNTY, Texas — Harris County officials are sounding the alarm during National Mosquito Control Awareness Week, urging residents to take immediate steps to prevent mosquito breeding as recent heavy rains have created ideal conditions for the pests.
Mosquitoes, notorious for spreading diseases such as West Nile virus, thrive in standing water, which has become more prevalent across the county following days of rainfall.
Dr. Courtney Standlee, interim director of Harris County Mosquito Control, explained that while mosquitoes are present year-round, the period from May to October marks the season of highest disease transmission risk.
“So we call this the season of high disease transmission risk. May to October is when we have the high abundance of mosquitoes, the reservoirs that can hold the virus in our community, people outside and the water, the rain and the temperature, so this is the time we’re seeing more mosquito-born disease,” Standlee said.
The county employs a multi-pronged approach to mosquito control, including neighborhood spraying and laboratory research. Teams collect mosquito samples from across Harris County, analyzing them for viruses such as West Nile. Researchers are also working to develop more effective ways to combat the pests, including studying mosquito behavior and breeding habits in controlled environments.
So far this year, there have been no reported human cases of West Nile virus in Harris County, and the number of mosquitoes testing positive for the virus is lower than at this time last year. However, officials warn that vigilance is crucial, especially after significant rainfall.
Residents are encouraged to follow the “3 Ts” to reduce mosquito populations:
- Tip: Empty standing water from containers, even small ones like coffee cups.
- Toss: Discard unused items that can collect water, such as old tires.
- Take Action: Use insect repellent and wear long sleeves and pants when outdoors.
By following these steps, Harris County residents can help protect themselves and their communities from mosquito-borne diseases as the peak season continues.