Maintained pools containing chlorine do not interest mosquitoes in my experience. Dripping hoses with static puddles might, and yes they do prefer shady spots, under a stegi for instance. I make an effort to grow plants that they dislike, but I doubt that they make much difference. I suspect that lack of spraying by local authorities is the main factor in their increasing numbers, although I have noticed that they make an appearance in November, just when we think we will have some peace. I do stay indoors or wear long sleeves at night, that helps. We should be more concerned these days with the appearance of the West Nile Virus, which is not trivial.
If you have a bite which causes more trouble than usual, a pharmacist will be very helpful, with the caveat that you should go to a doctor should their remedy not work within three days. Personally, I wouldn’t consider moving to another area, unless you are considering one outside the Mediterranean.
