- Date:2026-04-15
- Department:Comprehensive Planning Division
As the weather warms up, the peak season for vector mosquitoes is approaching. The Ministry of Environment emphasizes that the fundamental solution to mosquito control lies in implementing “Inspect, Empty, Clean, Scrub” to regularly eliminate standing water and prevent mosquito breeding at the source. All mosquito control products serve only as supplementary tools.
The Ministry explains that rising spring temperatures combined with rainfall create favorable conditions for vector mosquito breeding. The transition from egg to larva (wriggler), pupa, and finally to adult mosquito takes only about 7 to 10 days. If standing water is not removed after rainfall, vector mosquito populations can multiply exponentially within a week. While mosquito control products can provide protection, eliminating standing water containers remains the most fundamental and cost-effective method. The public is urged to follow the “Inspect, Empty, Clean, Scrub” routine every week: inspect your living environment, empty standing water from containers, remove trash and breeding sites, and scrub the inside of containers to prevent mosquito eggs from attaching, thereby eliminating breeding sites at the source!
For those wishing to purchase mosquito control or insecticide products, the Ministry invited Distinguished Professor Li Hou-feng of the Department of Entomology at National Chung Hsing University (also Chairman of the Taiwan Environmental Pest Management Association) to explain the three main effects of common commercial products: killing, repelling, and deterring. Using the concepts of “sealed room,” “tear gas,” and “protective shield,” he provided guidance on proper usage according to product type and environment:
- Killing Effect (Sealed Room Concept):
Applicable to aerosol insecticides and liquid or coil mosquito repellents used in enclosed spaces. Doors and windows should be closed temporarily, and people and pets (including fish) must leave the area. The insecticide should be allowed to act for at least 30 minutes to 2 hours. Afterward, open windows and doors for ventilation and re-enter only after the odor has dissipated.
- Repelling Effect (Tear Gas Concept):
Suitable for use indoors when people are present, such as liquid or coil mosquito repellents. Ensure proper ventilation and place them near entrances or upwind areas to prevent mosquitoes from entering. Usage should not exceed 8 hours per day.
- Deterrent Effect (Protective Shield Concept):
Applicable to mosquito-repellent patches or topical repellents (e.g., those containing DEET or Picaridin). The purpose is to interfere with the mosquito's senses so it stays away. Use according to product instructions.
The Ministry reminds the public that after understanding these three concepts, mosquito control should begin with “inspect, empty, clean, scrub” to eliminate breeding sources. For mosquitoes already indoors, aerosol insecticides or mosquito coils can be used for “sealed room elimination,” ensuring people and pets leave beforehand, sealing the space for at least 30 minutes, and ventilating thoroughly before re-entry. For uninterrupted sleep, mosquito nets are recommended, or repellent patches can be placed at entrances or windows to reduce disturbance.
The Ministry also emphasizes that for safety, users must read the product labels carefully and follow the instructions before use. When purchasing products, follow the “four principles”: (1) target the correct pest (mosquitoes), (2) ensure legality (MOE/EPA approved registration number), (3) check validity period (the expiration date), and (4) read the Label (Read instructions before use.) Approved product information can be found in the Ministry’s Environmental Agents Information System.
Finally, the Ministry reminds the public that synthetic pyrethroids commonly found in mosquito coils are toxic to pets and aquatic organisms. Proper precautions and isolation are necessary when used indoors. All products are supplementary—the fundamental solution remains “Inspect, Empty, Clean, Scrub,” regularly eliminating standing water to prevent mosquito breeding at the source.
