One of the deadliest pests in Nigeria today is Mosquitoes contributing to thousands of death yearly from Malaria caused by the vector. Malaria is a life-threatening disease caused by parasites that are transmitted to people through the bites of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes. According to the latest WHO estimates, released in December 2016, there were 212 million cases of malaria in 2015 and 429 000 deaths.

Mosquitoes are small, midge-like flies that constitute the family Culicidae. They feed on their host and though the loss of blood is seldom of any importance to the victim, the saliva of the mosquito often causes an irritating rash that is a serious nuisance. Much more serious though, are the roles of many species of mosquitoes as vectors of diseases. In passing from host to host, some transmit extremely harmful infections such as malaria, yellow fever, Chikungunya, West Nile virus, dengue fever, filariasis, Zika virus and other arboviruses, rendering it the deadliest animal family in the world.

We cannot categorically say that Mosquitoes can be completely eliminated but there are few steps one can take in combating this deadly pest, such that though it exists but you are free from its scourge

1. Personal Hygiene

Personal hygiene is the first step to grooming and good health. It is very important that you practice personal hygiene. Keeping your surroundings and environment clean at all times, good and proper drainage system, emptying the trash can as quickly as possible and overall personal health maintenance. It has been observed by medical experts that people who practice personal hygiene have a higher percent chance of not contacting the plasmodium and not having malaria. Personal hygiene is a major key to overall well being of a person.

2. Use of Mosquito Net.

This is a curtain or a canopy of net like material, made mainly from polyester which offers protection from mosquitoes. It is a non-chemical approach which makes it less harzadous to health. They Last long and are durable, They are economical and have no smell or irritating effect. Are good and safe (especially for babies/children). They are made of a suitable material with fine mesh to act as a mechanical barrier to the entry of mosquitoes.

Use insecticide treated mosquito nets and sleep in peace & protect your health.

3. Use of Insecticides.

There are four class of mosquito insecticides currently used in the control of malaria carrying mosquitoes (vectors): organochlorines, organophosphates, carbamates and pyrethroids. The 12 insecticides in all four classes are recommended for use in indoor residual spraying (IRS), whereas only pyrethroids are currently recommended for use in long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs). Insecticides like Baygon, Mobil, Raid, etc have proven to be very effective.

remember to vacate the room before spraying

4.Use of electronic killer device.

Electric Mosquito Killers have proved to be very effective in combatting malaria.  This electronic device comes with a special light that attracts mosquitoes, traps it and then kills it. Nevertheless, LED bulbs are still a tool that’s been proven effective. Mosquitos fly towards virtually any light. Once they get too close, they’ll get zapped. It’s that simple. It is very safe and economical too and you can use it both indoor and outdoor.

These products are relatively new members of the insect control industry – but they’re quickly becoming popular around the world.

5. Fumigation.

 To eliminate mosquito breeding sites, begin with obvious areas and empty the water from them. These sites include old tires, buckets, wheel barrows, and clogged gutters. Removing standing water around your yard is a useful first step in reducing mosquito populations, but it does not solve the problem. Mosquitoes can easily breed next door in your neighbor’s yard, or further down the street.

Fumigation is very important in eradicating mosquitoes. It is necessary to fumigate your area to avoid the breeding of malaria. Get a professional to fumigate your gutters against mosquitoes