If you've ever been driven inside by mosquitoes during a backyard picnic, or had to cancel an important outdoor event because of mosquito annoyance, or have chased one pesky invader around the bedroom in the middle of the night, you know the value of effective mosquito control. Mosquitoes can be annoying enough to make an area uninhabitable or unsuitable for recreational or industrial development. Economic losses can also be considerable in resort areas and at local tourist attractions. In many cases, residents, once they know where to look can identify and eliminate potential mosquito breeding habitat around their homes and neighborhood. As with most things in life, benefits do not usually come without some associated risks.
Mosquito control is no different.
Complete mosquito eradication is impossible, thus man's effort to control mosquitoes is an on-going battle. In the previous sections, we have discussed the benefits to be derived from controlling mosquitoes. Those being, a greatly reduced threat from mosquito-borne disease, and an overall improvement in the quality of life. On the other hand, the risks associated with mosquito control also concern human health, and the health of our natural environment. In the following sections we will discuss these risks, and how, through modern technology, mosquito control agencies have been able to reduce the threat to human health and the environment.