These tiny pests thrive in stagnant water and carry dangerous diseases like dengue, malaria, and Zika. Cases tend to spike during the rainy season when mosquito breeding increases.

We can’t do anything about the typhoons and monsoons that lash the country but there are things we can do about mosquitoes.  Here are seven ways to control mosquitoes simply and effectively around your home and reduce the risk of bites during this season.

1. Eliminate Breeding Sites

We all know mosquitoes lay eggs in stagnant water, so removing their breeding sites is the first step to controlling them.

• Empty containers: Check flower pots, buckets, and other places where water collects.
• Clean water tanks: If you store water, keep the containers tightly covered and clean them regularly.
• Go out into your barangays and properly dispose of used tires and discarded bottles.

2. Use Mosquito Repellents

Applying mosquito repellent is a quick and effective way to keep bites at bay. Look for repellents that contain DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. You can also burn mosquito coils or use plug-in repellents indoors to create a mosquito-free zone.

Ensure that these repellents are safe for pets and store in places the kids cannot get to.

3. Maintain Your Surroundings

Plantitos and titas may not like this but you have to get rid of plants that serve as home to these insect pests. The pandemic is over, time to get out of the house and enjoy life outside. This means your plants may not be the therapy that you needed during the COVID-19 lockdowns. Mosquitoes hide in tall grass and shrubs during the day. Keep your yard tidy by:

• Trimming the grass and overgrown plants regularly.
• Clearing clogged gutters to prevent water buildup.
• Adding larvicides to areas with stagnant water that cannot be drained. Larvicides kill mosquito larvae before they become adult mosquitoes.
• Clean your garage of any clutter that will attract mosquitoes and roaches. 
• Open your curtains to let the sunshine in and drive away mosquitoes.

4. Install Screens and Nets

Prevent mosquitoes from entering your home by installing screens on doors and windows. Screens are a must in a tropical country like the Philippines. If mosquitoes get into your house, and they will, sleeping under a bed net adds an extra layer of protection, especially for children and elderly family members.

5. Use Essential Oils and Plants

Natural remedies like citronella, lavender, and basil are known to repel mosquitoes. You can plant these herbs around your home or use essential oils in diffusers and sprays for added protection. Not only will your home smell great, but you’ll also be driving mosquitoes away!

6. Wear Protective Clothing

If you’re going outside, especially in the early morning or evening when mosquitoes are most active, wear light long-sleeved shirts and long pants. For extra protection, choose clothing treated with permethrin, a mosquito repellent that lasts through multiple washes.

7. Monitor & Control Mosquitoes

In some areas, local authorities monitor and control mosquito populations by releasing mosquito traps or even sterile mosquitoes to reduce their numbers. Stay informed about these efforts in your area. Join in community clean-ups to help reduce mosquito breeding grounds. If your barangay is offering free fumigation, be sure to get your neighborhood scheduled.

You can enjoy the rainy season without the worry of mosquito bites. Just follow these tips. Keeping your home and surroundings clean and mosquito-free is key to staying healthy and protecting your family from mosquito-borne diseases.

Stay safe and enjoy the rainy season!