According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention mosquito-borne illnesses affect 100 million people per year world-wide. With mosquitoes making their return for the summer, some possibly carrying West Nile virus, it is important to fight the bite.
The Douglas County Health Department is using mosquito larvicide in potential breeding sites or stagnant waterways to prevent the spread of West Nile virus and reducing mosquito populations.
The department will trap mosquitoes every other week beginning Tuesday to survey their populations and types in Douglas County. Trapped mosquitoes are counted and tested for Zika, West Nile virus and Chikungunya at the Nebraska state public health lab.
“The West Nile virus is established in Douglas County and we can expect more cases,” Health Director Dr. Adi Pour stated. “With flooding we saw this spring it will be important for everyone to pay attention to standing water. That could mean more breeding sites than in past years and that is a concern.”
Here’s how you can help protect yourself from mosquito bites:
· You can apply a mosquito repellent that includes DEET, and the CDC also has approved picaridin and oil of lemon eucalyptus.
· When using sunscreen the CDC recommends applying sunscreen before repellant and avoid using
combined products.
· Wear loose, long-sleeved shirts, plus pants, shoes and socks when outdoors.
· Avoid outdoor activity around dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.
· Remove standing water or report it to the Health Department for treatment.
While some viruses can be spread to people who are bitten by mosquitoes, only a small percentage of mosquitoes carry a virus.