Mosquito invasion expected after storms

HOUSTON – Days of heavy, continuous rain has left behind pools of standing water, the number one breeding ground for mosquitoes. Experts say the stage is now set for one giant invasion.

"If they are having a problem, that's when I get involved," said Glenn Gamache with John Moore.

On Thursday, he was out conducting a termite inspection. This time next week will likely be a different story.

"Going around a home like this, treating the bushes for mosquitoes where they are sleeping during the daytime. That way we can get them before they are biting our customers," Gamache said.

To prevent an all-out assault, check for and eliminate standing water around your home, walk the entire property and look for those less obvious, out of the way spots, and don't forget to arm yourself with a good insect repellent.

Mosquito experts insist now is the time to act before it gets too hot.

"As the temperature increase, the life cycle goes faster. So probably by next week, the middle of next week you are going to see an uptick in mosquitoes," said Kyle Flatt, with Harris County Mosquito Control.

The greater Houston area is home to more than 50 species of mosquitoes and some may carry the deadly West Nile virus.

Landscaper Terry Collins isn't fooled. He knows just because he can't see mosquito larvae in a puddle, doesn't mean they are not there.

"Usually I have my long sleeve shirt, t-shirt and everything. I got that in the truck. I've got to be ready," Collins said.

So far, there has not been a single reported case of the West Nile virus in Harris County.


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