Mosquito/Nuisance Control
The Shelby County Health Department provides the following Vector Control services for Lakeland residents. Here are examples of the services provided by the monthly Vector Control fee:
Mosquito concerns, abandoned swimming pools, mosquito spraying, mosquito surveillance, insect identification, rat infestations, rat baiting, rat harborage, sewage out-cropping, illegal dumping and littering, garbage/junk nuisances, used tires contributing to mosquito breeding, high grass/weeds etc.
Lakeland residents may file a complaint with the Shelby County Health Department by calling 901-324-5547 or 901-423-5922 or email Vector Control.
Citizens are encouraged to:
- Wear DEET-containing mosquito repellants according to label directions (especially during evening hours) Eliminate standing water where mosquitoes can lay eggs.
- Check properties for objects - including old tires, flower pots and drip plates, tin cans, buckets, and children’s toys - that collect rainwater and either drain or dispose of the water
- Install or repair windows and door screens
- Empty, clean and refill birdbaths and small wading pools weekly
- Empty and refill pets’ water bowls every few days
- Repair failed septic systems
- Repair leaky outside faucets
- Clean rain gutters and down spouts
- Secure swimming pool covers tightly and remove any standing water after rainfall
- Store wheelbarrows, canoes and boats upside down
- Stock ornamental lawn ponds with fish (Gambusia) that eat mosquito larvae (Gambusia fish are available free from the Vector Control Program – Please call for availability 901-222-9715
Individuals with chronic health problems such as asthma or other lung conditions may want to remain indoors during the time of spraying. Citizens who do not want their residences to be sprayed should contact the Health Department’s Vector Control Program at 901-222-9715.
West Nile Virus
In 2016, the Health Department confirmed cases of West Nile Virus in 19 zip codes around Shelby County.