Post-storms mosquito control efforts under way 6-9-26
June 9, 2026
Post-storms mosquito control efforts under way
MOBILE, Ala. — The Mobile County Health Department’s Vector Services program has stepped up its spraying activities in response to increase in the mosquito populations following weeks of heavy rains. Nighttime spray activities will continue, as weather permits, until nuisance levels are reduced.
MCHD offers an online portal that allows residents to request help from Vector Services and receive feedback related to mosquitoes or rodent concerns. Residents can learn more at mchd.org/vector-services. Those without internet access may call 251-690-8124 for Mosquito Control or 251-690-8819 for Rodent Control.
Citizens are reminded that mosquitoes can carry such diseases as encephalitis (sleeping sickness) in this area of the country and therefore precautions should be taken to avoid exposure.
Dr. Kevin Michaels, Health Officer for Mobile County, suggests the following personal protection measures to reduce the risk of being bitten by mosquitoes:
• Limit outdoor activities during mosquito peak flight times of dusk and dawn.
• Wear light-colored clothing (dark clothes retain heat and attract mosquitoes).
• Wear a hat or cap to prevent mosquitoes from being attracted by heat leaving the body through the head.
• Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants.
• Mosquito repellents throw off the senses of the female mosquito. All repellents should be used according to instructions whether used on clothing or on exposed parts of the body. Repellents made with the chemical DEET are the most effective.
• Sprays are designed for exterminating flying insects can offer temporary relief in small outside applications. Follow spraying directions thoroughly.
• Window and door screens kept in good condition can help prevent mosquitoes from entering the house. Mosquitoes also like to rest above doors waiting for a chance to dart inside, so keep doors closed as much as possible.
• Residents can offset some of the favorable conditions for mosquito breeding by cleaning up storm debris, as soon as possible. Be sure to discard objects that retain water and create mosquito-breeding pools.
• Fill in depressions left by uprooted trees and large tire ruts from utility and construction vehicles.
Mosquito bites can be treated with topical agents such as calamine and menthol lotions. Cortisone creams and oral antihistamines are available as over-the-counter medications that can reduce itching.
In addition, MCHD has launched an interactive story map that helps the public track mosquito activity, learn about arboviruses, and find ways to protect themselves and their families. The story map is available at mchd.org/community-tools/ and through the “Mosquito Monitoring in Mobile County” link.