Texas Border Business
Recent rains have increased mosquito populations
(McAllen, TX) With the recent rains in the Rio Grande Valley, there is an expected higher volume of mosquito activity that may cause public concern. The City of McAllen will be spraying/fogging areas to reduce the mosquito population, starting this evening, Tuesday, October 24, from 9:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m. midnight.
“As part of the City of McAllen’s Integrated Pest Management Program to protect the health and safety of our communities, we will be more active in educating the community and provide adequate mosquito treatment methods to reduce the population of mosquitoes within the city,” said Steven Kotsatos, Director, City of McAllen’s Health & Code Enforcement Department.
Additionally, the community is asked to assist supporting these efforts by removing any tires and containers that can hold an inch or more of water with the property. Residents should also maintain their property to reduce mosquito breeding sites by cleaning out drains and gutters.
Please report any mosquito concerns to (956) 681-1900, or through the McAllen 311 app, available for free for both Android and Apple devices.
The Texas Department of State Health Services recommends people throughout the Rio Grande Valley and Texas to continue protecting themselves from mosquito bites by:
- Using EPA-approved insect repellent every time they go outside.
- Using air conditioning or window and door screens that are in good repair to keep mosquitoes out.
- Limiting outdoor activities during peak mosquito times.
- Covering exposed skin with long pants and long-sleeved shirts whenever possible.
- Removing standing water in and around homes, including in trash cans, toys, tires, flower pots and any other containers so mosquitoes can’t lay their eggs.
- Using a larvicide in water that can’t be drained to keep mosquitoes from developing into biting adults.
