Mosquitoes: Undoubtedly among the most aggravating and dangerous insects in Singapore. The dangers of leaving mosquito infestations unchecked go far beyond just mild irritation. Their itchy bites, buzzing sounds, and capacity to spread diseases like dengue fever, malaria, and the Zika virus, as well as cause fatalities, are all well-known characteristics of this pest.

The threat of mosquitoes is nothing new to Singapore. According to Singapore’s National Environment Agency (NEA), there are 45 active dengue clusters as of 20 February 2023 – nine of which have red colour alerts (i.e. clusters with ten and above cases). The Aedes aegypti mosquito population, the primary dengue vector, was roughly 8 per cent higher in January 2023 than it was in the same month in 2022 in Singapore. Despite the concerted efforts by the authorities to implement various measures to reduce their population, mosquitoes are nevertheless active all year long – especially during the monsoon season. That said, it is crucial to understand why mosquitoes are active and what we can do to keep them at bay.

Singapore’s humid and warm weather makes it the ideal place for mosquitoes to breed. They can quickly multiply and spread diseases in areas where there are lots of stagnant water sources, such as discarded containers, flower pots, and drains. The mosquito-borne diseases pose a severe threat to public health, highlighting the importance of keeping the mosquito population under control. In this article, we’ll explore the reasons behind the mosquitoes’ activity and provide practical tips to help you lessen their presence in your surroundings.

When are mosquitoes active?

Mosquitoes are active all year long in Singapore, but the monsoon season – which typically lasts from November to January – is when they are most active. High humidity and heavy rains during the monsoon season provide the perfect environment for mosquito breeding and growth. The risk of mosquito-borne diseases like dengue fever tends to rise during this season, primarily due to an increase in the mosquito population.

Mosquitoes tend to rest during the day and are often most active at dawn and dusk. Certain species, like the Aedes mosquito responsible for transmitting dengue fever, are active during the day and capable of biting at any time. The highly adaptable Aedes mosquito may breed in even the tiniest amounts of stagnant water, like clogged drains and the like.

Mosquito infestation prevention

Like with most pests, mosquito management begins with prevention. The following ways can help safeguard your home from mosquitoes;

• Eliminate stagnant water 

Stagnant water attracts mosquitoes. As such, it is crucial to get rid of any standing water in and around your house. You can do this by routinely cleaning and emptying water-collecting objects like flower pots.

• Use mosquito nets 

Using a mosquito net can protect you from mosquito bites, especially when you’re in an area with a red colour alert, where there are a lot of mosquitoes.

• Wear long-sleeved clothes 

Wearing long-sleeved clothing can help prevent mosquito bites, as it acts as a barrier against said bites. Moreover, wearing light-coloured clothing can also help, as mosquitoes are drawn to dark hues.

• Install window screens 

To effectively keep mosquitoes out of your abode, installing window screens may help. When doing so, ensure that the screens are securely fastened without any holes.

• Use mosquito repellent 

Using insect repellent can help to keep mosquitoes at bay. Choose a repellent with picaridin, DEET or oil of lemon eucalyptus as its active ingredient. Before stepping outside, don’t forget to slather the repellent on the exposed skin.

• Call for professional mosquito control

Should you encounter a severe mosquito infestation, it would be best to seek the help of reliable pest control services. Professionals in pest control can assist in locating the infestation’s source and provide effective treatment options.

Here at PestClinic, our NEA-trained and certified pest control specialists can provide pest control remedies that are safe and effective. We’ll conduct a thorough inspection, find the leading cause, and provide a proper mosquito control solution.

Conclusion 

Mosquitoes are a persistent and common problem in Singapore, and their activity poses a significant threat to public health. But by understanding the reasons behind their activity and taking necessary precautions, we’re able to reduce the risk of mosquito-borne diseases and keep ourselves and our loved ones safe. While the government is doing their very best, individual efforts also play a crucial role in combating the mosquito menace.