Dry conditions may have been protecting us from our annoying friend, the mosquito. (Photo 9607535 © Alexander Zhiltsov - Dreamstime.com)

By Ronald Quaroni

Winged Assailants

Low mosquito numbers could soon turn around

Jun 18, 2019 | 1:27 PM

A mosquito-free spring may come to an end as the official start of summer looms.

Zoonotic/Environmental Health Consultant with the Provincial Ministry of Health, Nicole White said residents have been lucky so far.

“Because of the drought conditions that we’ve had and the relatively cool (temperature), the number of all species is low right now,” White said.

Unfortunately, what was good for the farmers, recent warm weather and rain, could also boost the local mosquito populations.

“If significant rainfall or thunderstorms occur, mosquito numbers can rebound quickly,” Ministry of Health’s Communication Consultant, Colleen Book wrote in a media release.

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West-Nile carrying Culex Tarsalis mosquitoe numbers generally increase and peak in mid-July, through the first two weeks of August.

Nicole White said as mosquito numbers rise, residents can take some easy steps to avoid bites.

“Covering up with loose clothing, mosquitoes will bite through tight clothing,” White explained. “(Wearing) light colours and the use of approved mosquito repellant.”

White added avoiding dusk and dawn will help you avoid peak mosquito activity. She also recommended the use of netting and full clothing coverage for young babies and toddlers who may not be able to use mosquito repellants.

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Ron.quaroni@jpbg.ca

Twitter: @RonaldQuaroni