Warm weather calls for more time spent outdoors, but bugs should not stop you from enjoying it! Mosquitoes are a natural part of the great outdoors, but they can also cause concerns about West Nile virus, caused by the bite of a virus-carrying mosquito. The best way to protect yourself from mosquito-borne diseases is to avoid mosquito bites.
Kenneth G. Pearce, Lorain County General Health District Health Commissioner states, “There are things you can do for protection to enjoy the outdoors without being bugged.” The following are ways you can reduce your chances of being bitten:
1. Dress to protect.
- Wear light colored clothing, long-sleeved shirts or jackets, long pants, shoes and socks when outdoors.
- Use colognes and perfumes sparingly, as these may attract mosquitoes.
- Make sure doors and windows have tight-fitting screens. Repair or replace all torn screens in your home.
2. Spray to keep bugs at bay.
- Use an insect repellant.
- Consider use of an insect repellent containing 10 percent or less DEET for children and no more than 30 percent DEET for adults. Always use DEET according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
3. Keep your yard clear.
- Eliminate any standing water that collects on your property. Mosquitoes must have standing water to lay their eggs and develop to an adult.
- Remove any items that may collect standing water, such as buckets, old tires, bird baths, and toys. Mosquitoes can breed in them within days.
4. Watch the clock.
- Prime biting hours for mosquitoes are usually between dusk and dawn. So when the sun goes down, put on repellant.
Control what you can and avoid the spread of disease by preventing mosquito bites. Don’t take the chance of being bitten. For more information on controlling mosquitoes please visit www.LorainCountyHealth.com and check out the prevention tipsheet under our resource center. Follow us on Twitter @LorainCoHealth and “Like” us on Facebook to get more up-to-date health tips.
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