Mosquito Control

About mosquitoes

Mosquitoes are small flying insects, and only the females bite, because they need blood to produce eggs. They lay their eggs in standing water, where the larvae grow into adults in about a week.

In Delhi NCR, three kinds matter most. Aedes mosquitoes (black with white stripes, biting during the day) spread dengue and chikungunya. Anopheles mosquitoes spread malaria. Culex mosquitoes, the common night-time biters, can spread filariasis and Japanese encephalitis. Cases usually peak during and after the monsoon.

Where they're found

• Coolers, flower pots, trays and buckets with standing water
• Water tanks, overhead tanks and open drains
• Old tyres, construction sites and blocked gutters
• Shady corners, under furniture and behind curtains
• Gardens, parks and areas with dense plants

Why they're a problem

• They spread serious diseases such as dengue, malaria and chikungunya
• Bites cause itching, swelling and disturbed sleep
• They breed quickly: even a bottle cap of water is enough
• Outbreaks affect whole buildings and neighbourhoods, not just one home

Quick facts