Protect Yourself from Mosquito-Borne Illnesses

The Pasco County Health Department is emphasizing the importance of personal protection against mosquito bites as human cases of West Nile virus are identified across the country and state. Right now no human cases have been reported in Pasco County this year. Throughout the year,the health departments work with Mosquito Control, the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, and state universities, to monitor for the presence of illnesses carried by mosquitoes.

"Standing water is a breeding ground for mosquitoes. Take some simple measuresto reduce the chances of contracting a mosquito-borne illness," said Michael J. Napier, M.S., Interim Health Officer of the Pasco County Health Department.

Pasco County residents and visitors should remain diligent in protecting
themselves from mosquito bites by practicing: Drain and Cover. Drain standing water to stop mosquitoes from multiplying.

DISCARD: Old tires, drums, bottles, cans, pots and pans, broken appliances andother items that aren't being used.
EMPTY and CLEAN: Birdbaths and pet's water bowls at least once or twice a week.
PROTECT: Boats and vehicles from rain with tarps that don't accumulate water.
MAINTAIN: The water balance (pool chemistry) of swimming pools. Empty plastic swimming pools when not in use.

Cover your skin with clothing and use mosquito repellant.

CLOTHING: If you must be outside when mosquitoes are active, cover up. Wear
shoes, socks, long pants, and long sleeves.
REPELLENT: 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. Use mosquito netting to protect
children younger than 2 months.

Cover doors and windows with screens to keep mosquitoes out.

Keep mosquitoes out of your house. Repair broken screens on windows, doors,
porches, and patios.

Symptoms of mosquito-borne illnesses may include headache, fever, fatigue,
dizziness, weakness, and confusion.

Physicians should contact their county health department if they suspect an
individual may have a mosquito-borne illness. Department of Health (DOH)
laboratories provide testing services for physicians treating patients with
clinical signs of mosquito-borne illnesses.

For more information on mosquito-borne diseases, visit the DOH Environmental
Health website.