Warm, Damp Weather Could See More Mosquitoes In Upper Cumberland

Recent rain in the Upper Cumberland could produce an increase in the presence of mosquitoes.

Putnam County UT Extension Agent Wayne Key said that standing water is the main breeding ground for the pests.

“Whether it be a frisbee turned upside down, water that’s been laying there for weeks, or a stagnant fish koi pond that no longer has an aerator that’s working on it,” Key said. “Mosquitoes like water that’s not moving, it’s stagnant, it’s very very dull, there’s no fluidity.”

Key said it’s important for community members to pay attention to these areas around homes to prevent an influx of mosquitoes in their neighborhoods.

To protect yourself against mosquitoes, Key said full body coverage is important. The best ways to prevent insect bites are wearing long sleeves, long pants, and using repellant sprays containing deet.

“That product has been proven by the FDA to be very, very successful at getting rid of and repelling mosquitoes away from you,” Key said.

Key said people should remain vigilant when it comes to mosquitoes, especially because of the potential for disease.

“West Nile Virus could certainly be a major issue,” Key said. “It has popped up in recent years, we’ve seen more influxes of it, and I think we certainly protect ourselves either by clothing or by using a resistant aerosol repellent to keep them away.”