HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Hurricane Beryl has left Southeast Texas residents dealing with a surge in mosquito activity. Neighbors across the region have been sharing images not of storm debris but of swarms of mosquitoes infesting their properties more than a week after the hurricane passed.
A resident of Brazoria County mentioned that she has never seen such a severe mosquito problem before. The Harris County Mosquito and Vector Control Division (MVC) explained that there’s a clear reason for this increase in mosquito numbers.
“We’re entering the week where we’ll start seeing mosquito development and an increasing number of mosquitoes,” said Dr. Max Vigilant, the director of Harris County MVC.
Dr. Vigilant noted that while the storm washed away many mosquito eggs, those that survived have found ideal conditions for growth due to the post-storm heat, standing water, and debris.
For those wondering about mosquito spraying locations, Galveston, Brazoria, and Harris counties have websites with this information. In Galveston County, residents can request spraying services, whereas in Harris County, spraying is focused on areas where disease has been detected due to limited resources—only nine technicians cover Harris County’s 1,700 miles.
Disease is a significant concern, with West Nile virus detected in mosquitoes across Harris County. The first human case of West Nile virus in Montgomery County was reported last month, following a positive mosquito sample in Bellaire.
To help prevent mosquitoes, officials recommend the following steps:
– Clear your yard and home of any standing water.
– Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants.
– Use topical and area repellents.
Many cities and municipalities will spray weekly, and residents in Brazoria County can request spraying through the county website. While spraying cannot be requested in Harris County, residents can request inspections to identify mosquito breeding sites on their properties.
Dr. Linda Yancey, an infectious disease specialist at Memorial Hermann, advises that most mosquito bites are not serious, but medical attention should be sought if symptoms like headaches and confusion occur.
Experts also warn that the higher mosquito levels could persist for weeks, so residents should be cautious about where they place storm debris. “Don’t put debris in drains or ditches as it will collect water. Instead, place it on the banks and edges to allow water to flow,” advised Dr. Vigilant.
Although spraying cannot be requested in Harris County, assistance is available. Residents can request an inspection to identify mosquito breeding sites on their property.
