Ways to decrease your exposure to mosquitoes:

• Eliminate areas of standing water
  • Discard old tires
  • Dispose of any unused containers where water could collect
  • If container can not be discarded, turn it over, cover, or drill hole in the bottom so water will drain
  • Turn over items such as wheel barrows and plastic wading pools when not in use
  • Remember this includes items such as children’s toys
• Do not use rain barrels to store water
• Keep swimming pools clean and chlorinated - include hot tubs and spas
  • Drain and cover unused swimming pools
  • Drain pool covers
  • Aerate larger swimming pools and ponds
• Unclog and clean out roof gutters
• Do not rake leaves and other yard waste into the gutters or storm drains as it prevents water from flowing and creates stagnant water
• Change bird baths at least weekly
• Change outdoor water bowls for pets frequently
• Fix leaky faucets
• Remember other possible places for standing water, such as boats and plant pots

Remember it is not necessary to limit outdoor activities, however you can and should try to reduce your risk of being bitten by doing the following:

• Minimize outdoor activities between evening and nighttime hours - mosquitoes are most active between dusk and dawn when the air is calm. However, they may be present anytime of day
• When outdoors, wear clothing that covers the skin, such as long sleeve shirts and pants
• Consider the use of repellents but use sparingly and follow all directions on the container.
  • When over used or used improperly, repellents may cause allergic and toxic reactions
  • Never allow children to apply repellents
  • Do not use repellents on children under the age of three
  • Read our section about repellants for more important information
• Make sure that door and window screens do not have holes
• Be sure doors and windows fit tightly
• Avoid using bug zappers since they also kill beneficial insects
• Replace outdoor lights with yellow “bug” lights

There are about 65 different species of mosquitoes in New York State. While most do not transmit West Nile virus, several mosquito species have been associated with the West Nile virus.

The Culex pipiens mosquito is the most common species associated with West Nile virus.  They usually fly no more than 300 feet from their breeding site.

Some mosquitoes, such as Culex pipiens, are most active between dusk and dawn, when air is calm.  However, they may be present at any time of day.

Mosquitoes can develop in any standing water that lasts more than 4 days. To reduce the mosquito population around your home, reduce or eliminate all standing water and debris.

West Nile Virus and Seniors [.PDF*; 139 Kb]