Mosquitoes in Michiana and the impact weather has on them

SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- Around 60 species of mosquitoes that exist across Indiana can be divided into two subcategories: floodwater/nuisance and disease-vector.

Heavy rain like the storms we have seen the past few weeks promote the breeding and development of the floodwater variety while inhibiting the disease-vector population growth, mostly through the rains flushing out containers where disease-ridden mosquitoes tend to reproduce.

Drought, especially when hot temperatures are present, heavily favors the growth of mosquitoes carrying West Nile Virus (WNV) and other diseases due to mosquitoes being inherently cold-blooded.

As a result of the less muggy conditions from the drought, people tend to wear less repellant, leaving them exposed to more mosquitoes which could be carrying disease.

Higher concentrations of disease-carrying mosquitoes are more common in urban environments with greater amounts of human activity and more containers that act as breeding grounds.

We are still early in mosquito season, but the amplification of the mosquito population is in full swing as the insects continue to reproduce and infect birds.

Mosquitoes are only active when the temperature is 60F or above with those carrying disease like WNV active only at night or dusk/dawn.

Mosquito season begins in mid-April and lasts until the first hard freeze, usually in mid-late October and into November. 

Five counties in Indiana have found WNV in at least one mosquito, although Michiana is clear as of now. 

To prevent breeding on your property, make sure to clean out any standing pools of water in pots, pools, toys, etc.

All bites from mosquitoes decrease quality of life, regardless of the type.

Mosquitoes are not the only risk to watch for this Summer. 

Tick season usually reaches its peak a little later in the year during Memorial Day weekend.

Make sure to spray repellent on yourself when mosquitoes and ticks are active and to wear long-sleeved shirts, pants, long socks, and closed-toed shoes to prevent penetration.

For more information regarding mosquitoes and their risks, visit the Indiana Department of Health's website.