Rain Bringing Mosquito Increase In Southeast Volusia

Volusia County, FL - Residents in the coastal parts of Southeast Volusia are dealing with a larger than normal mosquito problem thanks to all the rain lately. That's the word from Volusia County Mosquito Control as workers deal with an increase in service calls, especially in and around Oak Hill, Edgewater and New Smyrna Beach. County spokesperson Kate Sark says phone lines are at capacity because of the calls, but workers are going as fast as they can by air and ground to keep the mosquitoes down, especially the salt marsh ones. "Staff is out in full force treating larval production sites in the marsh by helicopter and boat," Sark added. "Trucks are spraying after sunset to treat adult populations." Mosquito Control also uses fixed-wing aircraft for spraying runs in areas which are normally announced in advance on the county's emergency management Twitter feed.

Mosquito Control is spraying after 7:45 p.m. in the New Smyrna Beach, Port Orange and Samsula areas, weather permitting. https://t.co/8vLtqJNgle

— Volusia EMER MGMT (@VCEmergencyInfo) August 23, 2018

Residents who require county service can submit requests through the Mosquito Control website. Those who live in the city limits of Deltona, DeBary, Orange City, Lake Helen, DeLand and Pierson should call their city for assistance. Sue Bartlett, director of Volusia County Mosquito Control, offers these suggestions for keeping mosquitoes down on your property. - Use an EPA approved insect repellent. - Cover up using long sleeved shirts and long pants. - Cover windows and doors with screens. - Check your yard for containers (pots, buckets, tires, toys, pools, pet dishes, etc.) that may be holding small amounts of water. Pockets of standing water are prime habitat for mosquitoes. Other tips can be found by clicking here or here.