With the abundance of wet weather in Mid-Missouri in the past few weeks comes the threat of an increased mosquito population, and area residents are encouraged to help by eliminating standing water in and around their homes.
David Grellner, health division director for Jefferson City, said mosquitoes have to breed in water, so the best way to protect from them is to get rid of any pools of water.
The city used to have a seasonal mosquito program that sprayed large pools of standing water to prevent mosquitoes from breeding, but that program was cut two years ago, when the city faced an unexpected budget shortfall of $1.68 million. Since then, the Planning and Protective Services Department has requested the program be reinstated, likely for a cost of about $20,000, according to a previous request from the 2014 budget. The City Council has not opted to fund it.
Grellner said no other governmental agency has a program in the area, except Cole County, which does not spray in city limits.
For residents, Grellner said to be vigilant about getting rid of standing pools of water and changing the water in pools, bird baths or anything that holds water.
"That will help curb the mosquito breeding habitat," Grellner said.
He advised people use mosquito repellent and wear long-sleeved shirts or pants outside.