Mosquitoes are not only annoying, but also potentially dangerous. They can transmit diseases such as malaria, dengue, Zika, and West Nile virus to humans and animals. Therefore, it is important to take precautions to prevent and repel mosquito bites.
However, not all U.S. cities have the same level of mosquito infestation. According to a recent ranking by Orkin, a prominent pest control company, one Florida city has been identified as the most mosquito-infested in the nation.
What is the ranking method?
Orkin used data from its service requests in the largest metropolitan areas between April 1, 2020, and March 31, 2021. This data included both residential and commercial mosquito treatments. Orkin considered several factors that affect mosquito populations, such as climate, population density, and proximity to water sources that provide ideal breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
What is the top 10 list?
Based on this ranking method, here are the top 10 most mosquito-infested cities in the U.S., along with their Florida counterparts:
| Rank | City | State |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Los Angeles | California |
| 2 | Chicago | Illinois |
| 3 | New York | New York |
| 4 | Atlanta | Georgia |
| 5 | Dallas/Fort Worth | Texas |
| 6 | Washington D.C. | District of Columbia |
| 7 | Philadelphia | Pennsylvania |
| 8 | Detroit | Michigan |
| 9 | Houston | Texas |
| 10 (tie) Miami-Fort Lauderdale Florida |
Why is Miami-Fort Lauderdale the most mosquito-infested city in Florida?
Miami-Fort Lauderdale claims the top spot on both lists and emerges as the most mosquito-infested city in Florida. Several factors contribute to this problem:
Florida’s subtropical climate provides warm and humid conditions that allow mosquitoes to thrive year-round.
The city is surrounded by water bodies, from the Atlantic Ocean to the Everglades, providing ample breeding spots for mosquitoes.
Miami-Fort Lauderdale’s dense population and urbanization attract both tourists and residents, creating an abundant source of blood meals for mosquitoes.
How to prevent and repel mosquitoes?
Mosquitoes are more than just a nuisance; they can pose health risks to both humans and animals. Therefore, it is essential to take proactive measures to prevent and repel them. Here are some tips from Orkin:
1.) Remove standing water around your home or business, including flower pots, buckets, birdbaths, gutters, and tires, to reduce mosquito breeding sites.
2.) Repair screens or windows with holes or gaps to prevent mosquitoes from entering indoor spaces.
3.) When outdoors, wear long sleeves and pants to minimize exposed skin susceptible to mosquito bites.
4.) Apply an EPA-registered insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus to deter mosquitoes from landing on you.
5.) In case of severe mosquito problems, consult a professional pest control service for effective and customized solutions.
Conclusion
Mosquitoes are a common nuisance in many U.S. cities, but their prevalence varies due to factors like climate, water sources, and population density. By following these tips from Orkin, you can protect yourself and your family from mosquito bites and diseases.
Blue & Gold NLR Team is a dedicated journalist at blueandgoldnlr.com, where he provides insightful and up-to-date news coverage. With a passion for uncovering the truth and a commitment to delivering accurate information, Blue & Gold NLR Team brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the team. His work ensures readers stay informed about the latest events and developments.