Because of heavy and much needed rains of the last few weeks, Brownwood has gone from drought conditions to having an abundance of standing water on many properties, leading to record numbers of mosquitoes according to Paul Coghlan of the Brownwood/Brown County Health Department.

Although mosquitoes are in abundance, Brown County has been fortunate to have no reported cases of West Nile Virus; however, the public is still warned to take precautions when outside.

With higher temperatures and more rain in the forecast for the weekend, citizens are reminded to take the following precautions:

Whenever outside use insect repellents that contain DEET or other EPA approved repellents and follow product instructions.

Dress wearing long, loose and light colored clothing when outside, if possible.

Drain and remove all standing water in and around homes. Mosquitoes breed and larvae develop in standing water.  Mosquito populations can be reduced by eliminating breeding sources.  Empty standing water from containers such as flower pots, children’s pools and bird baths.  Small ponds should be cleaned and maintained.  Old tires and trash cans collect water.  Dispose of garbage items.  Appropriately drain or treat areas that collect water such as gutters and storm drains.  Remember to keep vegetation cut low to prevent mosquitoes from habituating in these areas of overgrowth.

Dusk to dawn is a time when mosquitoes that carry West Nile Virus are more active.    Daytime is when mosquitoes that carry Chikungunya Virus are more active, but they are also out during the dusk and dawn as well.  For these reasons, it’s important to wear insect repellent throughout the day during mosquito season and re-apply per label instructions.  Make sure window screens and screen doors are in good repair to keep mosquitoes from coming inside.

The Brownwood/Brown County Health Department is continuing to monitor the situation which includes vector control, treating standing water and spraying when weather permits, said Coghlan.

“We have not sprayed yet due to the wind and rain, which washes the chemical away,” said Coghlan.  “We plan to start Monday night with a local pest control company treating zones of town.  It’s not just one location, it’s all over town.”

Coghlan stated that controlling the overpopulation of mosquitoes requires citizens’ help by taking care of their properties, cutting their yards, disposing of used tires on properties, and draining standing water.

Citizens may report areas of concern by calling 325-642-2971.

Pictured above is a photo of a swimming pool on a vacant property near Brownwood High School that was recently treated due to stagnant water.  The pool was drained when the owner left town; however, recent rains have led to the pool accumulating approximately 300 gallons of water, said Coghlan.  Below is a flower pot with standing water and a puddle in a driveway in the background, which are examples of ideal breeding grounds for mosquitoes.