East Hartford Health Department Advises Residents of Mosquito Control Measures

East Hartford, CT - The East Hartford Health Department is monitoring wetland areas and drainage catch basins throughout town that are known to have the right conditions for mosquito breeding sites.  These areas are routinely monitored during the warmer months of the year when mosquitos are typically more active, which is April through October in Connecticut, and will treat as needed to help reduce mosquito counts.

Assessments during the month of May revealed increased mosquito activity that prompted both application of larvicides in water sources as well as spraying to reduce mosquito counts at several town sites.  “The East Hartford Health Department has already received calls from several residents with concerns of mosquito activity”, said Laurence Burnsed, Director of Health.  “Our mosquito control program helps to reduce mosquito activity from municipal sites, but residents are asked to help by using mosquito control measures on your property.”

The best way to manage mosquitoes around the home is to eliminate standing water where mosquitoes can lay eggs.

• Flush birdbaths and wading pools weekly.
• Swimming pool filtering systems should be maintained and in good working order.
• Abandoned pools should be drained, filled, or "shocked" with pool chemicals.
• Seal or cover with screens openings of standing water sources (septic tanks, roof gutters, rain barrels).
• Rotten stumps and tree holes can be filled with sand.
• Discarded tires should be disposed of properly or holes (0.5 inches or larger) can be drilled in the bottom of the tires to drain water.
• Check your property at least weekly for sources of standing water and dump them out (e.g., wheelbarrows, pails, paint cans, children’s toys, clogged gutters, flower pots, etc.).
• Change water in ornamental pools and aquatic gardens or install an aerator. You can stock minnows, such as Gambusia, koi, or guppies, as a natural biological control.
• If you own a pool that is not in operation or have standing water on your property that cannot be drained, you may purchase ‘mosquito dunks’ containing larvicide.  Mosquito dunks can be purchased at hardware stores, home improvement centers, and online, can be placed in standing water every few weeks to prevent mosquitos from breeding in these areas.

Residents are also encouraged to follow tips for safely applying insect repellents to protect yourself and family members from mosquito bites. 

• Use insect repellent according to product directions on the label.
• Apply repellents only to exposed skin or clothing, never underneath clothing.
• Do not spray directly on your face; spray on your hands and then apply to your face.
• Wash your hands after applying repellent to avoid accidental exposure to your eyes or mouth.
• Do not allow young children to handle repellents.  Adults should gently apply to your child’s exposed skin for them. 

For more information about the Town of East Hartford mosquito control program, or bite prevention resources, please visit the Health and Social Services Mosquito Control Info.