This press release put out at the request of the Florida Department of Health in Alachua County.
ALACHUA COUNTY, FL – The Florida Department of Health in Alachua County (FDOH-Alachua) is informing residents that surveillance systems have detected the presence of mosquito-borne viruses.
“FDOH-Alachua would like to remind citizens and visitors of the importance of preventing infection from mosquito-borne diseases,” said Anthony Dennis, Environmental Health Director, FDOH-Alachua. “FDOH-Alachua and local mosquito control are continuing surveillance and prevention efforts throughout the County.”
To prevent mosquito-borne diseases, the Florida Department of Health recommends practicing “Drain and Cover.”
DRAIN standing water to stop mosquitoes from multiplying.
- DRAIN: water from garbage cans, house gutters, pool covers, coolers, toys, flower pots or any other containers where sprinkler or rain water has collected.
- DISCARD: old tires, drums, bottles, cans, pots and pans, broken appliances and other items that aren't being used.
- EMPTY and CLEAN: birdbaths and pet's water bowls at least once 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 repellent.
- If outside when mosquitoes are active, cover up. Wear shoes, socks, long pants, and long sleeves.
- Always read label directions carefully for the approved usage before applying a repellent to skin. Some repellents are not suitable for children.
- Products with concentrations of up to 30 percent DEET are generally recommended. Other EPA-approved repellents contain picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR3535. These products are generally available at local pharmacies. Look for active ingredients to be listed on the product label.
- Apply insect repellent to exposed skin or onto clothing, but not under clothing.
- When protecting children, read label instructions to be sure the repellent is age-appropriate. According to the CDC, mosquito repellents containing oil of lemon eucalyptus should not be used on children under the age of 3 years. DEET is not recommended on children younger than 2 months old.
- Infants should be kept indoors or mosquito netting should be used over carriers when mosquitoes are present.
- If additional protection is necessary, apply a permethrin repellent directly to your clothing. Again, always follow the manufacturer's directions.
COVER doors and windows with screens to keep mosquitoes out.
- Keep mosquitoes out of houses. Repair broken screens on windows, doors, porches, and patios.
For more information, see the Center for Disease Control (CDC), and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) guidelines.
Residents should report mosquito problems to their municipality’s mosquito control, or the FDOH-Alachua at 352-334-7930.
For more information, contact Anthony Dennis at 352-334-7930.