Human illness from the West Nile virus is still rare, despite the number of reported cases around the world. The odds of any individual becoming ill from a mosquito bite is low. However, you can protect yourself from mosquito bites, further reducing your chances of contracting the virus.
To avoid mosquito bites:
- Apply any type of insect repellent that contains DEET to your skin, whenever you are doing any outdoor activities. Read the directions on your repellent product carefully. Too much sweat or skin exposure to water may cause a need to re-apply the repellent product. li>
- Putting insect repellent on clothing can further reduce the risk of a mosquito bite.
- Wear long sleeve shirts or any type of clothing to
cover any exposed skin, while outdoors.
- Evening and early morning periods are optimal for mosquito bites. Avoid any outdoor activity during these times. If you cannot, take extra care to wear skin repellent or protective clothing during that period.
- Install or repair window and door screens or anywhere that mosquitos may get into your home.
- Support Community-Based Mosquito Control Programs to help reduce the possibility in your neighborhood.
The Florida Department of Health does everything they can to monitor and help prevent the West Nile Virus. Click here, to see what is available in your local community.
The National Pesticide Information Center has good resources on pesticides and repellents. Their toll free number is (800) 858-7378.
Since mosquitos lay their eggs in calm water, dispose of or drain containers and areas around your home that may hold water. Obviously, it reduces the chances of mosquitos laying eggs around your home and subsequent mosquito bites.
To reduce the number of mosquitos around your home:
- Empty any container or areas around your home of standing water as often as possible. Twice a week is best. li>
- Clean out
clogged rain gutters. li>
- Check areas around your home that are hard to see, such as bushes or under the house. li>
- If there is no organized mosquito control program in your area, get involved with your local government to establish a program. li>
The American Mosquito Control Association can give you more advice on mosquito control, and their book Organization of Mosquito Control is a good reference.
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