During and after periods of rain, standing water can collect in residential and outdoor areas, creating ideal conditions for mosquitoes to breed. Taking a few simple precautions can help protect you, your family, and the wider KAUST community from mosquito bites. Mosquitoes can transmit diseases such as Dengue Fever, Zika Virus, and West Nile Virus, which have been reported in parts of the region. Preventing mosquito bites and reducing mosquito breeding sites are important public health measures that help protect our community.
1. Remove standing water
Regularly empty water from flowerpots, buckets, trays, pet bowls, and other containers around your home. Even small amounts of standing water can become mosquito breeding sites.
2. Use insect repellent
Apply mosquito repellent when spending time outdoors, especially during the early morning and evening. Repellents containing DEET are a safe and effective option when used according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
3. Dress to prevent bites
Wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and closed-toe footwear when outdoors to minimize exposed skin.
4. Protect your home
Keep doors and windows closed when possible and ensure window and door screens are in good condition to prevent mosquitoes from entering your home.
5. Help protect the community
Campus & Community (C&C) is proactively addressing mosquito concerns across KAUST by identifying and treating mosquito breeding sites. Residents can support these efforts by regularly inspecting their homes and backyards for standing water and eliminating potential breeding areas. If you notice persistent standing water, blocked drainage, signs of mosquito breeding, or increased mosquito activity, please submit a service request through the 959@FM App, call 959 from a KAUST phone, or 012-808-09-59 from a mobile phone to support campus-wide mosquito control efforts.
Healthy communities start with prevention
Mosquitoes can breed quickly after rainfall, even in Saudi Arabia’s arid climate. Prevention remains the most effective way to control mosquito populations. By removing standing water, taking simple protective measures, and promptly reporting potential breeding sites, every resident can help reduce mosquito populations, lower the risk of mosquito-borne diseases, and support a healthier KAUST community.
For questions related to public health, contact hse@kaust.edu.sa. For pest control support, contact pestcontrol@kaust.edu.sa.
