SAGINAW COUNTY, Mich. -- Mosquito control officials said the season for the pesky bug is in full swing and they’re an even bigger problem this year because of excessive spring rain.

Flooded land made Mid-Michigan a perfect breeding ground and if things really heat up this summer, mosquito control said there could be increased risk of West Nile virus.

“The last two or three years, this is the worst,” said Randy Knepper, with mosquito control. “The last time it was this bad was back in 2006.”

There are 60 species of mosquitoes in the state of Michigan and these insects can often times be infected with West Nile virus, malaria or encephalitis.

Knepper explains why there is such abundance this year: “We had a lot of rain in April, so the water table was high and we have rainfall totals twice normal for June.”

With approximately 25 rain gauges scattered throughout Saginaw County, mosquito control can pinpoint the trouble spots.

The good news is that when it is cool and wet, there is less of a chance for mosquitoes to have West Nile virus.

Mosquitoes like tall grass, standing water and daytime shade.

The Saginaw County Mosquito Control researches how to repel and kill mosquitoes night and day throughout the county.

Mosquito control does this by air, by truck and by moped. The average lifespan of a mosquito is roughly six weeks.

Scientists report nearly everything about humans draws the bugs to us.

Carbon dioxide from a person’s breath helps mosquitoes find their prey, as does body heat.

There are more than a few myths when it comes to repelling mosquitoes.

Scientists said noise-emitting devices don't keep mosquitoes away or prevent them from biting.

And so far, there is no scientific evidence that eating garlic, vitamins, or any other food will make you a repellent to mosquitoes.

When it comes to mosquito repellent, the government has only cleared a few chemicals proven to be effective.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said DEET is potent but safe.

If you are looking for a natural repellent, the agency said oil of lemon eucalyptus, or PMD, is also effective in keeping the bugs at bay and protecting you from mosquito-borne diseases.