Media Release

​This press release published 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) advises that while Tropical Storm Colin cleanup continues, residents should do their part to prevent mosquito breeding.

They recommend the following steps:

• Drain water from garbage cans, house gutters, pool covers, coolers, toys, flowerpots 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 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. Repair broken screens on windows, doors, porches, and patios.
• Remove vegetation or obstructions in drainage ditches that prevent the flow of water
• Those who must be outside when mosquitoes are active should cover up. Wear shoes, socks, long pants, and long sleeves.
• Apply mosquito repellent to bare skin and clothing. Always use repellents according to the label. Repellents with DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, para-menthane-diol, and IR3535 are effective. Use netting to protect children younger than two months.

“We must all do our part to act quickly to eliminate new sources of standing water brought on by Tropical Storm Colin, which can rapidly become mosquito breeding sites,” said State Surgeon General and Secretary of Health Dr. Celeste Philip. “While we have not experienced local transmission of Zika in Florida, we must remain vigilant in our efforts to protect ourselves from mosquito bites in and around our homes.”

Watch a public service announcement video about mosquito prevention.

View/download a mosquito bite protection poster (PDF).

For more information about mosquito-borne illness prevention, visit the Florida Department of Health’s website.

Residents should report mosquito problems to their local municipality’s mosquito control or the Florida Department of Health in Alachua County at 352-334-7930.