South Carolinians urged to drain standing water as mosquitoes thrive after Tropical Storm Debby

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WCBD) – In the wake of Tropical Storm Debby, the South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) is calling on residents to help control the surge in mosquito populations caused by the storm’s heavy rain and flooding. The aftermath of Debby has left many areas with standing water, creating the perfect breeding grounds for mosquitoes.

Mosquitoes, which can develop in standing water in as little as five days, are expected to increase significantly following the storm. DPH is urging residents to take immediate action to eliminate standing water from their properties to prevent the proliferation of these pests.

“Mosquitoes can lay eggs in small amounts of water, so it’s very important to get rid of standing water that can accumulate in buckets, flowerpots, grill covers, tires, trashcan lids, toys, and yard decorations or debris,” said Dr. Chris Evans, State Public Health Entomologist with DPH. “Removing or preventing standing water are some of the most effective ways to reduce mosquito populations at home and in your community, which in turn reduces the risk for disease spread through their bites.” 

DPH recommends filling low-lying areas, such as tire ruts and puddles, with dirt or cement to prevent water accumulation. This simple step can make a significant difference in controlling mosquito populations at home and in the community.

South Carolina is home to at least 61 different mosquito species. While many are simply a nuisance, some can pose serious health risks by spreading diseases such as West Nile virus, eastern equine encephalitis, La Crosse encephalitis, Saint Louis encephalitis virus, and dog/cat heartworm. 

“With the potential increase in mosquitoes following Tropical Storm Debby, it’s important that South Carolinians take additional steps to protect themselves from mosquito bites,” Dr. Evans emphasized.

In addition to eliminating standing water, the American Mosquito Control Association advises wearing long sleeves, long pants, and light-colored, loose-fitting clothing when outdoors. The use of EPA-registered insect repellents, such as DEET, oil of lemon eucalyptus, and picaridin, is also recommended. Residents should carefully follow product label instructions when applying repellents.

While DPH does not directly perform mosquito control, the agency provides valuable information to help individuals, communities, and local mosquito control programs take action. Local mosquito control efforts are managed by city and county governments.

DPH collaborates with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to monitor mosquito-borne diseases. The state’s mosquito-borne disease surveillance program includes trapping and testing mosquitoes, testing dead birds reported by the public, and working with Clemson University Veterinary Diagnostic Center to test animals, such as horses. The DPH also monitors and responds to human cases of mosquito-borne diseases.

As the Atlantic hurricane season continues through November 30, DPH stresses the importance of removing standing water following any storm to minimize mosquito breeding opportunities.

For more information on mosquito prevention and protection, visit DPH’s mosquito prevention webpage.