Oakland County Keeps Watchful Eye on Mosquito Population

As the summer sun warms up Oakland County, making it ideal for outdoor activities, an unlikely nuisance could be out and about as well – mosquitoes. While these little creatures are synonymous with simply leaving itchy bites, they are, in rare instances, capable of carrying diseases.

These diseases might not cause any symptoms in most people, or they might produce mild effects. Nonetheless, a compact number of individuals could face severe complications or even loss of life.

At Oakland County, monitoring the mosquito population is among their main priorities during this time of year. This prevention measure is made possible through cooperation with Michigan state officials who facilitate the collection and testing of mosquitoes for possible diseases.

So, how does the monitoring work? Twenty sites across the county have traps that pull in, or ‘pool’, mosquitoes. Each of these pools can then be examined to identify disease-carrying species.

Despite the alarm, there’s no need to panic. According to local health officials, the risk of contracting a mosquito-borne disease this year is low. This, however, does not negate the importance of their continued vigilance.

Monitoring Results Thus Far

No mosquito pools have tested for any diseases in Oakland County this year. This is expected to change though, as mosquito-borne diseases usually peak around late July through September.

In 2023, six mosquito pools tested positive in the county for at least one disease. That year, individuals were affected by West Nile virus and Jamestown Canyon virus, two illnesses that usually have mild to no symptoms but can potentially produce serious complications.

The Mosquito Life Cycle and Disease Cycle

Warm, wet spring weather conditions can lead to a noticeable increase in the mosquito population. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean we’ll see a drastic rise in mosquito-borne viruses.

How do mosquitoes carry disease, you may wonder? Here’s a simplified explanation: mosquitoes get the viruses from biting infected birds or other animals. The mosquitoes then function as carriers of these viruses, infecting humans through their bite.

Precautions to Take

Preventing mosquito bites is the best method to avoid diseases. Insect repellents, especially those containing the active ingredient DEET, can effectively protect against mosquito bites.

Mosquitoes are usually most active at dawn and dusk. So, during these times, wearing long-sleeved and light-colored clothes can reduce the likelihood of bites.

For those with children, it’s important to shield their little ones. Insect repellents are not recommended for infants under two months. Rather, keep their arms and legs covered and use mosquito netting on outdoor baby equipment.

Lastly, remember to clear any standing water outside your homes, such as birdbaths and kiddie pools, as these serve as ideal breeding sites for mosquitoes.

While enjoying the warmth and buzz of summer, let’s stay vigilant and take these simple precautions to ensure a mosquito-free season!