NATCHEZ &045; Although their methods may not be as visible as spraying, Natchez and Adams County have already started their annual fight against mosquitoes.

City public works crews are placing larvacide packets where mosquito larvae are present in standing water.

&uot;We’re trying to head them off&uot; from developing into adult mosquitoes, said Ronnie Ivey, director of operations for the Public Works Department.

Larvacide is more effective than the more visible spraying, city officials have said.

That’s not to say that spraying is never done, however.

Public works employees set mosquito traps periodically, and if the count is high &045; specifically, 45 to 55 bugs in a trap &045; a second count is taken. If that count meets or exceeds the first count, spraying in done in that area.

In unincorporated Adams County, the Road Department facility at 406 Liberty Road, as in past years, is handing out water-soluable packets of larvacide for residents to place in standing water, said the department’s Sylvia Bunch.

Residents can pick the larvacide up at the office from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays.

In addition, Adams County crews are spraying weed killer along roadsides throughout the county to kill tall weeds that could serve as mosquito breeding grounds.

In Vidalia, town officials said they will begin spraying for mosquitoes on Monday.

Meanwhile, there are steps residents can take to help stop the mosquito problem before it starts.

Since mosquitoes breed in standing water, the State Department of Health recommends people rid their yards of any items that trap water, such as old tires or cans.

Residents should also make sure gutters are draining properly and remember to change water in birdbaths or pet containers regularly.