When choosing the best mosquito killer, people need to consider the product's effectiveness, as well as the possible health consequences from using it. In addition to being unpleasant, mosquito bites carry with them the risk of infection from the West Nile virus. Many people who are infected with this virus are symptom-free, but some experience symptoms that are similar to the flu, experiencing headache, body aches, and fever. In the case of people who have weakened immune symptoms, being infected with West Nile virus may lead to encephalitis, meningitis, or a polio-like condition called acute flaccid paralysis.
One of the best mosquito killers that a person can invest in is to prevent them from breeding in the first place. Homeowners should make a point of emptying containers containing standing water around the house on a regular basis to will reduce the chances of mosquitoes breeding near the home. This option will not eliminate the risk of being exposed to mosquito bites, though. Using a mosquito larvicide will kill them before they can reach adulthood. Shoppers should look for products that contain Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (Bti), which is a soil bacterium that is not considered harmful to humans or pets when it is used according to the manufacturer's directions.
In addition to these options, people will still need to deal with some adult mosquitoes in a home and yard. Only the adult females bite, and a way to deal with them permanently is to buy a mosquito trap. An effective trap uses a combination of octenol, which is a similar compound to human perspiration, and ultraviolet light. The trap attracts mosquitoes and kills them. Octenol is safe to use around adults, children, and pets, and some mosquito traps containing this substance have been approved for use inside the home.
There may not be one best mosquito killer on the market, but if a combination of methods can be used to keep these pests at bay and reduce the risk of getting bitten during warmer months. Since these methods will not eliminate the problem entirely, individuals should still use an effective mosquito repellent when you venture outside.