Mosquito and Tick Population Increase - WXOW News 19 La Crosse, WI – News, Weather and Sports |

La Crosse, Wisconsin (WXOW) - Our hot summer, which came after a mild winter, means more mosquitos and ticks are now swarming our area.

Some carrying illnesses like lyme disease and west Nile virus. Health officials say as the temperatures drop and moisture increases both pests will become more active and their populations will increase, meaning you should start taking preventative measures to guard against them now.

Mosquitos breed in standing water like tires, kids pools, and bird baths. Ticks are found in shrubs and long brush.

Dave Geske, Vector Control Manager for the La Crosse County Health Department, said "You know, you just have to be aware of the environment you're going into. Check yourself, check your children use repellents and check your animals."

It's recommended you check yourself daily for ticks if you spend time in grassy or wooded areas. If you have to go into areas like that, wear long sleeves.