mosquito on human skin at sunset

Contributed by Terminix.

In recognition of World Mosquito Day (August 20th), Terminix announced the cities with the worst mosquito problems. While many may people think of mosquitoes as little more than a nuisance, these pests can transmit serious diseases, including West Nile and malaria, prompting the World Health Organization to name the mosquito the world’s deadliest animal.

Dallas-Fort Worth topped the list for the second consecutive year, followed by New York City, Washington, D.C. and Houston. The list was generated based on the number of mosquito services rendered by Terminix between July 1, 2017 to July 1, 2018.

The top 25 cities with the worst mosquito problems are:
1. Dallas-Fort Worth
2. New York City
3. Washington, D.C.
4. Houston
5. Los Angeles
6. Atlanta
7. Philadelphia
8. Memphis, Tenn.
9. Chicago
10. Baltimore
11. Miami
12. San Antonio
13. Orlando, Fla.
14. Nashville, Tenn.
15. Tampa, Fla.
16. San Francisco
17. Boston
18. Little Rock, Ark.
19. Mobile, Ala.
20. Austin, Texas
21. Oklahoma City
22. Detroit
23. Jacksonville, Fla.
24. Indianapolis
25. Phoenix
 
Facility managers can help reduce the number of mosquitoes around their facilities with these tips:

1. Remove sources of standing water. Some mosquitoes need standing water in order to lay their eggs. Remove open containers or buckets that can harbor standing water to help reduce potential breeding sites. Also make sure to cover trash receptacles and smokers urns to prevent water from pooling.

2. Keep draining sites clear of standing water. If downspouts are used, make sure leaves and other debris don't create clogs, preventing water from flowing properly. 

3. Replace outdoor lighting. Mosquitoes, like many insects, can be attracted to light. Special bulbs called “bug lights” emit a different type of light that help attract fewer mosquitoes.