
By Susan Motander
Last week, the San Gabriel Valley Mosquito & Vector Control District started fogging to control Asian tiger mosquitoes (Aedes albopictus).
The tiny, but aggressive mosquitoes have been increasing in number recently and the district hoped to control these numbers by conducting truck-mounted fogging in El Monte last week.
This spraying was done between 3 a.m. and 6 a.m., to avoid outdoor pedestrians and traffic.
This mosquito is a day biter, capable of transmitting several serious viral diseases, including Zika, chikungunya, and dengue. The real problem with this mosquito is that it is capable of breeding in very little water and the eggs can lie dormant for months until hatching when the right conditions occur.
To avoid problems with these tiny pests, the Vector Control District suggests people wear mosquito repellant and protective clothing outside while the mosquitoes are active (remember this type is active during the day).
Be sure all windows and doors are properly screened. Remove standing water such as green pools, even in small amounts, such as the saucers under house plants.
If you have any questions or concerns, contact the district at (626) 814-9466 or visit them online at www.SGVmosquito.org.