Camden

Mosquito Season Not Yet Over!

Recent rainfall has left behind wet soil and standing water over parts of the region. The onset of the mosquito population raises the risk of disease. The best way to protect both humans and animals is to reduce the breeding grounds for mosquitoes and reduce exposure.

Mosquitoes can breed in any puddle of water that lasts for more than four days, so removing any source of standing water can reduce the chance of exposing animals and people to WNV or EEE. Viruses that are caused by mosquitoes are called arboviruses and occur in wild animals, especially certain types of birds or small mammals. In nature, the virus is spread from animal to animal by mosquito bites. The only way for an individual to acquire an arbovirus is from the bite of an infected mosquito. Preventive measures can reduce the chance of getting an arbovirus.

Jerry Parks, MPH, Health Director, Albemarle Regional Health Services, urges community members to take steps to reduce mosquitoes breeding on their properties. “Community members can be a tremendous help in our efforts to prevent the spread of WNV, EEE, and other mosquito-borne illnesses,” Parks stated. Residents should assess their properties and eliminate areas where standing water can collect.

The Public Health rule is to “Tip or Toss” standing water in artificial and/or natural container sites which create ideal breeding areas for mosquitoes including swimming pool covers and other tarpaulins. Adjust your pool cover and tarps so they will not retain water, or check and empty them every few days. Clean rain gutters and spouting. Fallen leaves can clog gutters and spouting, allowing water to collect when it rains. Repair leaking outdoor faucets, fill in potholes and puddles, and remove old tires. Completely rinse, clean, or empty birdbaths and containers. Flowerpots and trays can collect water from rains or from watering and provide mosquitoes with an ideal breeding ground. Take the containers inside or empty the water every few days. Empty and clean your pet’s water and food dishes at least once a week. Piles of leaves or other debris in low-lying areas can also hold enough water for mosquito larvae to develop and should be removed. The mosquitoes that are known to spread viruses breed in containers or polluted ditches.

The community is encouraged to be vigilant in reducing the risks of mosquito contacts by using mosquito repellents containing DEET when outdoors. Mosquitoes are most active including sunrise, sunset, and dusk/early evening hours. Use the repellents carefully by following label directions and observe young children frequently when outside during peak hours. Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants when outdoors during peak mosquito activity periods. Public Health educational materials can also be obtained by calling Jill C. Jordan, MAEd, with Albemarle Regional Health Services at 338-4483.

For more information, please visit the Public Health Pest Management website at http://www.NCWNV.com or contact them by telephone at (919) 733-6407. The Division of Public Health’s website can be viewed at http://www.epi.state.nc.us/epi/oee/wnv.html, or http://www.epi.state.nc.us/epiarboviruses/eee.html, or contact the Department of Environmental Health, Albemarle Regional Health Services, at 338-4490.

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