Mosquitoes

Mosquitoes are a vector of concern as they can carry and transmit a wide variety of diseases in Ohio including West Nile Virus and La Crosse encephalitis. They are also a vital part of the ecosystem and not all species carry diseases. This is why the Hocking County Health Department uses an integrated pest management program (IPM) to control mosquito populations including educating the public, mosquito surveillance, draining or removing breeding sites, applying larvacide to prevent mosquito larva from developing into biting adults, and as a last resort, spraying adult mosquito populations when needed.

Hocking County Surveillance Program

Through a grant from the Ohio EPA, a surveillance program was established to set traps and send mosquitoes to the Ohio Department of Health for identification purposes and testing for West Nile Virus. Click on link to view a map of trap locations in Hocking County. Help us control mosquitoes by reporting areas that appear to have high populations by clicking on the Mosquito Reporting & Service Request.

• Ohio Mosquito Surveillance Update

Fight the Bite - How to Prevent Mosquito-Borne Diseases

• Protect yourself and family from mosquito bites
• Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants
• Use EPA approved insect repellents - Always follow manufacture instructions and use caution when applying pesticides and repellents so beneficial insects like bees are not harmed.

Help reduce the number of mosquitoes by removing all standing water

• Mosquitoes can grow in any container that holds water for more than 1 week such as pop cans, buckets, pool covers and pet dishes.
• Change water in birdbaths weekly
• Keep gutters clear
• Fix outdoor leaking faucets

Mosquito proof your home

• Keep weed/grass cut short
• Seal broken or cracked septic lids
• Install or repair all window and door screens