Dengue fever is a serious mosquito-borne disease that is responsible for thousands of cases in Kerala every year, especially during and after the monsoon. In Kochi and Ernakulam, a combination of high humidity and stable water provides an ideal reproductive ground for mosquitoes. So always relying on prevention is the best method of defence.
If you have been asking yourself how to make your home and surroundings safer, this blog will tell you practical and effective mosquito control tips that actually work, and not just temporary solutions.
Why is the prevention of dengue in Kochi necessary?
Dengue fever is mainly spread by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, which can spread rapidly, especially in urban and semi-urban areas. In Kochi, it is challenging to curb the rapid spread of these mosquitoes due to various factors, including heavy rains, closed drains, and still unintentional holding/storage of water. Good news? With some basic steps, you can reduce the mosquito population around your house and eventually protect your family.
- Finish stable water – Mosquito favourite hangouts
Mosquitoes breed in clean, stable water, and their eggs can be minimised in 24–48 hours. Check and vacate regularly:
- Flower pots and trays
- Water tanks without lids
- Buckets and drums kept outdoors
- Air cooler trays
- Discarded tyres
Tip: Change the water in bird baths and pet bowls every 1–2 days.
- Keep Drains and Gutters Clean
In Ernakulam’s coastal climate, clogged drains are common. Blocked gutters hold water and become perfect mosquito breeding spots. Clean your drains weekly and ensure water flows freely.
- Install Mosquito Screens and Nets
Prevention starts at your doorstep — literally. Fit fine-mesh mosquito screens on windows and doors. At night, use mosquito nets around beds, especially for children and elderly family members.
- Repel Mosquitoes Naturally
If you want to use natural repellents rather than chemical stakes for unwanted mosquito bites, you can use products like:
- Lemon eucalyptus oil
- Citronella candles
- Neem oil mixed with coconut oil for skin application
These will not kill mosquitoes but can reduce your mosquito bites significantly.
- Upkeep Your Garden
Things like overgrown plants, leaves that hold water, and shaded corners in gardens are hot spots for mosquitoes. Trim back bushes, rake leaves and do not overwater your plants.
- Use Professional Mosquito Control Services
DIY is great but can only get you so far during active seasons. Professional pest control services in Kochi (Pest Control & Cleaning Service) usually use safe, targeted programmes which are made up of a combination of:
- Larviciding, through the use of sprays on breeding sites
- Fogging during high periods of activity
- Residual sprays, both inside and outside the home, that are effective for all windows of activity.
In addition to killing existing mosquitoes, they may prevent future infestations.
- Protect yourself while staying out.
If you need to be out at dawn or in the evening (Aedes mosquitoes are most active during these periods):
- Dresses: Wear long sleeves and full-length trousers.
- Writer: Use mosquito-saving cream or spray; apply it to any area of exposed skin.
- Fabric colours: Avoid dark colours that attract mosquitoes.
Common Questions About Dengue Prevention in Kochi
Q1: Can dengue mosquitoes breed in dirty water?
No. Aedes aegypti mosquitoes breed in clean stagnant water: even stored drinking water is a risk if not covered.
Q2: Is fogging enough to prevent dengue?
Fogging can kill adult mosquitoes but does not remove the larvae. It is most effective if combined with removal of the breeding site.
Q3: How many times should I say pest control?
In the monsoon and post-monsoon months in Kochi, we recommend that you make appointments with at least one professional for mosquito control every 2-3 months.
Q4: Are there plants that repel mosquitoes?
Some plants, including lemongrass, tulsi and marigold, can help repel mosquitoes, but they work best in combination with other control measures.
Q5: Are dengue mosquitoes capable of cutting during the day?
Yes, they can bite during the day. Aedes mosquitoes bite during daylight hours; in the morning and late afternoon, their activity is at its peak. Night bite is relatively rare.
Q6: Do mosquito coils and vaporisers prevent dengue?
Yes, these devices may repel or kill mosquitoes indoors. These devices can be useful in preventing dengue but should be used as one among other prevention measures and not the sole prevention method.
Q7: Can dengue be transferred from one person to another?
No, dengue does not move directly from person to person. Dengue is transferred only when a mosquito bites an infected person and then bites someone else.
Q8: Is it safe to use mosquito repellents on children?
Yes, however, please be sure to select the repellents made for children and read and follow the instructions. Please avoid applying the repellent, especially those containing DEET, on any child’s hands, eyes or mouth.
Conclusion
It is about many small steps that break the life cycle of mosquitoes. By using mosquito control services such as keeping your area clean from debris, removing any stagnant water and pest control in a timely manner, you can help the protection of your family and community.
If you are looking for a quick and safe mosquito control service in Kochi and Ernakulam and are uncertain about where to turn, please contact the pest control and cleaning service, which is recognised and operated by trained staff who are knowledgeable about local conditions, as we can also ensure that we are shown to be effective in solving the problem in your home or areas.
