Mosquito Population Explodes In Lubbock, Officials Warn of West Nile

If you've spent any time outside in the morning or as the sun is going down, you've probably noticed to uptick in mosquitos that are around. I know I have. This past Saturday morning I decided to mow our yard and was swarmed by mosquitos.

With the recent rains we have had combined with the hot temperatures along with lots of standing water, we have seen an explosion of mosquitos around the Lubbock area.

West Nile In Lubbock

According to a press release from the City of Lubbock. West Nile virus was found in recent mosquito samples that were collected inside Lubbock County. Due to that, citizens around Lubbock will see an increase in vector control teams spraying.

Lubbock officials also encouraged citizens to take precautions against mosquito bites. Those precautions include doing the following:

• Use EPA-registered insect repellents.
• Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants when outdoors.
• Use air conditioning or ensure window and door screens are intact to keep mosquitoes out of your home.
• Avoid outdoor activities during peak mosquito activity (dawn and dusk).
• Eliminate standing water around your home, including in flower pots, buckets, birdbaths, and other containers where mosquitoes can breed.

West Nile can infect humans but it's mainly found in birds. Most humans who do become infected with West Nile will not experience symptoms according to officials.

Those who do feel symptoms of West Nile after a mosquito bite, fever, headache, muscle and joint aches, should see a doctor.

So if you plan on being outdoors, spray yourself down or use some type of mosquito repellant. Not just because of West Nile, but because none of us like mosquitos.