Health Department Lifts Escambia Mosquito Borne Illness Alert

December 22, 2015

The Florida Department of Health in Escambia County (FDOH-Escambia) has lifted the mosquito-borne illness alert for Escambia County. Surveillance data indicate that the risk of human infection has decreased.

There were four cases of West Nile Virus confirmed in Escambia County this year.  Although mosquito-borne illnesses are less common in the winter months, Escambia County’s Mosquito Control office has indicated continued reports of mosquito activity in the area.

The health department still recommends that Escambia County residents and visitors continue to “drain and protect” against being bitten by mosquitoes.

Drain standing water.

  • Drain water from garbage cans, house gutters, buckets, pool covers, coolers, toys, flower pots or any other containers where sprinkler or rain water has collected.
  • Discard old tires, bottles, pots, broken appliances and other items not being used.
  • Empty and clean birdbaths and pets’ water bowls at least twice a week.
  • Protect boats and vehicles from rain with tarps that do not accumulate water.
  • Maintain swimming pools in good condition and chlorinated. Empty plastic swimming pools when not in use.

Cover skin with clothing or repellent and cover doors and windows.

  • Wear shoes, socks, long pants and long sleeves when mosquitoes are most prevalent.
  • Apply mosquito repellent to bare skin and clothing.
  • Always use repellents according to the label. Repellents with DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, and IR3535 are effective.
  • Re-apply mosquito repellent as often as needed to prevent mosquito landings and bites.
  • Use mosquito netting to protect children younger than 2 months old.
  • When using repellent on children, apply to your hands first and then rub on their arms and legs.
  • Place screens on windows, doors, porches, and patios. Always repair broken screens.

Comments

Comments are closed.

Written by William Reynolds · Filed Under News