Flies: Treatment and Prevention

The term ‘Fly’, in proper usage, refers to those insects which belong to ‘Order Diptera’. Some familiar members of the order are houseflies, blowflies, mosquitoes, midges, gnats, hover flies, and fruit flies.

Perhaps the most widespread factor contributing to the pest status of flies is the extent to which their flying habit is a source is a source of annoyance to humans. In Australia, at certain times of the year, the bush fly becomes an annoying constant companion outdoors, while the housefly annoys people indoors.

A more important consideration is the threat that flies pose to public health. The structure and habits of many flies are such that they can transmit diseases to humans.

 Fly Control

In urban areas, the quick and efficient disposal of garbage and wastes is of fundamental importance in fly control. The use of insecticides in fly control can only at best provide a backup to improvements in hygiene, and sanitation.

This may involve killing larvae, repelling adults, or killing adults with the use of residual surface sprays, space sprays, or baits. Often a combination of these methods is employed.

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Fly Prevention

Any serious attempt at fly control must involve a decrease in the availability of breeding sites. In most urban areas, various species of flies very successfullly exploit garbage, and waste.

Garbage bins should be kept clean, dry and sealed. As garbage bins are apt to attract the interest of flies, they should be located away from from doorways or other openings to buildings. Where there is a significant amount of wastes. as in restaurants or other food-handling facilities.