The coming of spring means rain, warmer weather and mosquitoes. Last weekend s rain coupled with high temperatures means the mosquitoes are ready to make their 2001 debut. Parks and Recreation will continue to spray until the problem subsides. Standing water in drainage ditches, normally dry streambeds, and in yards means more places for mosquitoes to breed. Mosquitoes are capable of transmitting a number of serious illnesses to humans, including encephalitis, malaria and dengue fever.
Mosquitoes can also transmit heartworms to dogs.
Citizens can do their part to control mosquitoes by covering any standing rainwater. It is also important to change water in birdbaths and water plants regularly. Mosquitoes will breed in stagnant water at the bottom of flowerpots. Mosquitoes also live in the cool, tall grass during the heat of the day. Citizens need to keep lawns mowed to curb the number of the pests that are hiding out.