| Latin Name | Culicidae |
| Length | Less than 1cm |
| Colour | Brown |
| Common Sighting | Any hidden surface not visible to human’s line of sight |
| Latin Name | Culicidae |
| Length | Less than 1cm |
| Colour | Brown |
| Common Sighting | Any hidden surface not visible to human’s line of sight |
Table of Contents
Quick Facts on Mosquito
Singapore is no stranger to mosquitoes. Arguably the deadliest pest in the country, the tropical climate of high humidity, hot temperatures and steady rainfall all year around ticked all the boxes for the perfect breeding ground for these tiny insects.
What are the Dangers Posed By Mosquitoes in Singapore?
As Singapore is a tropical region, mosquito-borne diseases pose dangers that could potentially be life-threatening. Here is a list of 4 common diseases transmitted by mosquitoes in Singapore:
1. Dengue
Among the deadliest and most often transmitted diseases by mosquitoes is dengue. The five main varieties of the dengue virus, which cause the disease, are spread by the Aedes Aegypti species. This species prefers to rest indoors and feeds on people during the day, with its peak biting periods often in the morning and before nightfall in the evening, according to research.
When an Aedes Aegypti sucks on an individual who has the dengue virus, the mosquito becomes infected with the virus, resulting in the mosquito infecting others with the virus when it bites healthy people. When infected with the dengue virus, it is advised to stay hydrated, obtain plenty of rest, and visit a doctor for close monitoring.
The symptoms of the dengue virus include:
- Skin rash
- Vomiting
- High fever
- Muscle ache
- Headache
The body’s immune system plays a major role in treating dengue infection as there is no particular medicine for the condition. Depending on the severity, recovery might take anywhere from two days to two weeks.
2. Malaria
Similar to dengue, malaria is a fatal disease spread by mosquitoes. A parasite called Plasmodium, transmitted by the Anopheles mosquito, is what causes malaria. An affected individual’s liver serves as a breeding ground for these parasites before they infect and destroy red blood cells.
Depending on the species, the Anopheles mosquito sleeps indoors or outdoors and often bites at night. They also like clean, unpolluted water and darker areas to nest in. After being bitten by a malaria-carrying Anopheles mosquito, symptoms typically appear 10 to 30 days later.
The symptoms of malaria include:
- Diarrhoea
- Muscle and joint ache
- Vomiting
- Fever
- In severe cases, jaundice
Those infected with malaria are recommended to seek immediate medical assistance. It would be best to exercise extra caution while getting close to swamps or seawater areas as these mosquitoes frequently reside there.
3. Chikungunya
Aedes Aegypti mosquitoes are primarily responsible for spreading the chikungunya virus. Most cases of the disease are seen in India, Africa, and Asia.
The symptoms of the chikungunya virus include:
- Skin rash
- Nausea
- Headache
- Severe joint pain
- Sudden development of fever
At the moment, there is no specific antiviral drug vaccine or treatment for chikungunya.
4. Zika
Another disease carried by Aedes Albopictus and Aedes Aegypti mosquitoes is the zika virus. The early cases of this virus were mostly found in Asia and Africa, but in recent years, especially during the 2015 and 2016 outbreaks, it has begun to spread to the Americas.
The symptoms of the zika virus include:
- Muscle and joint aches
- Headaches
- Fever
- Other symptoms similar to dengue
However, dengue can cause hemorrhagic fever, where symptoms can worsen and result in significant bleeding, shock, and even death. On the other hand, zika may result in neurological defects such as microcephaly, a birth abnormality in which a baby’s head is smaller than average.
Similar to dengue, zika does not have a cure. Thus, the best method to avoid contracting zika is to protect yourself from mosquitoes by eliminating mosquito breeding grounds within your home or calling on mosquito pest control, should the situation worsen.
Common Mosquito Species
1. Aedes Aegypti
Otherwise known as the yellow fever mosquito, the Aedes Aegypti originated in Africa but can now be found in tropical, subtropical and temperate regions, Singapore included. Its white markings on its legs are characteristic of the said insect. Whilst it generally takes up to 8 to 10 days to fully mature, its incubation period may shorten if the temperatures increase. This is especially concerning as these mosquitoes are vectors for transmitting several tropical fevers, such as yellow fever and dengue.
In 2020 alone, Singapore hit an all-time high in dengue death toll, where a total of 28 people succumbed to this deadly disease.
2. Aedes Albopictus
Also known as the Asian tiger mosquito, the Aedes Albopictus is endemic to southeast Asia. Similar to the Aedes Aegypti, the Aedes Albopictus is a vector for the transmission of many viral pathogens, such as Chikungunya and dengue fever. Rather than living in the wetlands, these mosquitoes often live with humans as it has managed to successfully adapt to our domestic environment in the suburban and urban areas.
3. Anopheles Maculatus
Previously considered the only member of the Maculatus species, the Anopheles Maculatus is a vector of Malaria in countries in the Malay Archipelago. It prefers to breed in water pockets formed on the bank of rivers and waterfalls.
4. Anopheles Sundaicus
Similarly, the Anopheles Sundaicus are vectors of Malaria in the Malay Archipelago. Since they are predominant coastal species, these pesky pests breed in both fresh and saline water and are typically found in fish and prawn ponds near the coast.
5. Culex Quinquefasciatus
Largely found in the tropics and sub-tropics, the Culex Quinquefasciatus is an urban mosquito found in close association with man, especially in urban areas. These mosquitoes feed at night and are attracted to lights. They prefer organically polluted waters such as ground puddles and small receptacles containing contaminated water. and drains with sullage water. The Culex Quinquefasciatus are also vectors of several pathogens, including Lymphatic Filariasis, Zika virus, and West Nile virus.
Mosquitoes posing a threat to the safety of your home? We at PestClinic are equipped to eliminate these disease-carriers effectively! Request our solutions by calling us at +65 6397 5677 or we can also be reached through email at info@pestclinic.com.sg
Sign of Mosquito Infestation
Mosquitoes are found in various habitats, but these insects are mainly concentrated near sources of standing water. They require standing water (at least 1 inch deep) for female mosquitoes to lay their eggs in and reproduce. Some also lay their eggs in moist soil, which will hatch once the soil is flooded with water. The female mosquito can lay up to 200 eggs at one time, which means that an infestation can easily get out of hand if not careful.
Some signs and symptoms of mosquito infestation include:
● Mosquitoes frequently hang around in shady, dim areas.
● Mosquitoes often emit a loud, irritating buzzing sound.
● Mosquito larvae are frequently found at the edges of slow-moving water as well as in stagnant water.
● Bite marks are a clear warning sign and can cause pain to severely irritated bites that may swell.
● The key to identifying mosquitoes around the home and business premises is by finding mosquito breeding sites and engaging in mosquito pest control services to minimise the number of insects in the region.
As such, the prevention and mosquito control measures often include removing any standing water in the home.
What are the Mosquitos Pest Control Methods in Singapore?
Adult Mosquito Control
The external compound will be thermal fogged to:- Eliminate the existing presence of adult mosquitoes.
- Leave a layer of residual preparation at the surrounding plants to tighten control.
For optimal effectiveness, one is encouraged to regularly engage in such services to keep the situation under control as there is a risk of cross- infestation of mosquitoes, seeing as how they are an airborne insect.
Mosquito Breeding Solution
Before the treatment is carried out, mosquito breeding or potential breeding areas are to be identified first. This treatment is performed when physical correction to the irregularity is impossible. Similarly, one is encouraged to employ such services regularly for optimal effectiveness.
** Additional mosquito control solutions are not covered for reinfestation conditions as mosquitoes are considered to be airborne pests.
Water Based Misting
As a form of fumigation treatment, water based misting is a treatment that works to eliminate airborne pests found within the premise or inaccessible areas, for instance, cracks and crevices. The fog particles are small enough (around 25 microns) to penetrate through such hard-to-reach areas, providing it with thorough coverage. It also possesses a low toxicity level and thus, will not pose any detrimental health effects to the surrounding public. That said, customers will need to exercise caution and be aware that the ventilation period of 30 mins to 1 hour has to be adhered for health and safety compliance purposes.
Mosquito Control Prevention Tips
Some preventative measures you can take include:
- If at all possible, refrain from using plant pot plates.
- Remove any water that may have been kept in potted plants, as it will prevent mosquito eggs from growing there.
- Avoid obstructing the water flow in scupper drains if you live in apartments with common corridors.
- Flower vases should have their water changed, and the insides should be scrubbed and cleaned.
- In order to stop stagnant water from building up on the surface of the hardened soil, loosen the soil from potted plants.
- Buckets and watering cans need to be stored properly, so they do not collect rainfall.
- Repair any water leaks since mosquitoes like to reproduce close to water sources.
- Cover all water sources.
- Periodically clean any water pans you may have in the house or place of business.
- Regularly remove any stagnant water and leaves from the garden and scupper drain.
- Avoid putting trays on top of or beneath air conditioning units.
- Avoid placing potted plants and other items over the scupper drain.
How To Prevent From Getting Bitten By Mosquitoes?
Besides engaging in mosquito pest control services in Singapore, here are some ways to prevent yourself from getting bit by mosquitoes:
- Choose the right clothing
Mosquitoes are drawn to dark colours such as black, navy blue, and red. Hence, it is advised to dress in lighter or more muted hues to avoid attracting their attention. Additionally, to achieve greater defence against mosquito bites, putting on thicker clothing and those with more surface coverage, like pants and long sleeves, is best.
- Make full use of mosquito nets
Mosquito nets are screens that can be put on windows and doors to significantly minimise the likelihood of mosquitoes entering while allowing for airflow.
- Clear any standing water
Mosquitoes use leftover standing water as both a source of water and a natural ground to breed. As stagnant water serves as the ideal location for them to lay eggs, make it a practice to discard unused water and search for and clean any spots where water could collect after a rainstorm.
- Wear insect repellent
When stepping outside, it is usually advised to use mosquito repellent for an additional layer of protection. For those with sensitive skin or children and pregnant women, it is imperative that you seek medical advice before using them for safety reasons.
PestClinic – Professional and Trusted Mosquito Control Services in Singapore
Rest assured that our technical specialists at PestClinic will do their best to carefully inspect your external compound for any signs of mosquito breeding before treating standing water to eliminate mosquito larvae. Afterwards, the external compound will be thermal fogged with secure methods to ensure safety for you, your loved ones, and your plants as we eliminate adult mosquitoes.
Engage PestClinic to help you get rid of mosquitos now.
Frequently Asked Questions
Mosquito Control Prevention Tips
To effectively prevent mosquito infestations, consider the following tips:
- Eliminate standing water: Mosquitoes breed in stagnant water. Regularly check and empty water from flower pots, buckets, pet water dishes, and children’s toys. Ensure that gutters are clean and free-flowing to prevent water accumulation.
- Proper landscaping: If you live on a landed property, trim grass, shrubs, and bushes regularly to minimise shaded areas where mosquitoes rest during the day. Consider using cedar mulch or other mosquito-repellent landscaping materials.
- Install screens: Ensure that windows and doors are fitted with fine-mesh screens to keep mosquitoes out. Repair any tears or holes promptly.
- Use mosquito repellents: Apply repellents containing DEET (N,N-diethyl-m-toluamide), IR3535, or picaridin on exposed skin and clothing when spending time outdoors. Repellents with DEET (N,N-diethyl-m-toluamide), IR3535, or picaridin are generally more effective and provide longer-lasting protection against mosquitoes compared to “natural” repellents made from plant-based extracts like eucalyptus, citronella, and other essential oils.
- Mosquito traps: Place mosquito traps in strategic locations around your yard to reduce mosquito populations.
- Professional services: Engage professional mosquito pest control services in Singapore. These experts can provide treatments and strategies tailored to your specific needs, ensuring a comprehensive approach to mosquito control.
How To Prevent Getting Bitten By Mosquitoes?
To avoid mosquito bites, follow these strategies:
- Appropriate clothing: Wear long-sleeved shirts, socks, long pants, and closed shoes to minimise exposed skin. Choose light-coloured clothing, as mosquitoes are more attracted to dark colours.
- Use repellents: Apply mosquito repellent on all exposed skin, focusing on areas like ankles, wrists, and the neck. Reapply as directed on the product label, especially after sweating or swimming.
- Mosquito nets: Use bed nets treated with insecticide when sleeping outdoors or in areas where mosquitoes are prevalent. Ensure the net is tucked in well and free of tears.
- Avoid peak activity times: Mosquitoes are most active during dawn and dusk. If possible, limit outdoor activities during these times.
- Fans and air conditioning: Use fans or air conditioning to create an environment less favourable to mosquitoes. Mosquitoes are weak fliers and are often deterred by the airflow from fans.
- Essential oils: Consider natural repellents such as essential oils (citronella, eucalyptus, and lavender) in diffusers or sprays. However, these are generally less effective than IR3535, picaridin, or DEET-based repellent products.
- Avoid scented products: Refrain from using scented lotions, shampoos, and soaps, as these can attract mosquitoes.
- Professional help: For persistent mosquito problems, consider mosquito control in Singapore. These professionals can offer regular treatments and advice on how to keep mosquitoes at bay.
How much would it cost to get rid of mosquitoes?
The cost of professional mosquito control services can vary based on several factors, including the size of the area to be treated, the severity of the mosquito infestation, and the specific services required. On average, mosquitoes pest control in Singapore may range from SGD 70 to SGD 200 per treatment. For accurate pricing, it is recommended to contact Singapore mosquito control services for a detailed quote.
How to keep mosquitoes away from a house?
To keep mosquitoes away from your house, you can:
- Regular inspections: Regularly inspect and remove sources of standing water where mosquitoes breed.
- Use insecticides and larvicides: Apply outdoor insecticides and larvicides in areas prone to mosquito breeding.
- Mosquito-repellent plants: Plant mosquito-repellent plants such as citronella, lavender, and marigolds around your home.
- Professional services: Hire professional Singapore mosquito pest control services for regular inspections and treatments to ensure a mosquito-free environment.
For more comprehensive mosquito pest control solutions, consider reaching out to reputable mosquito control services in Singapore, like PestClinic. These experts provide tailored strategies to effectively manage and prevent mosquito infestations, ensuring a safer and more comfortable living environment.
