Full Text
NOW IS WEST NILE VIRUS SEASON Late July and August are the peak months for West Nile Virus activity. The Cortland County Health Department would like to remind residents to take precautions by using insect repellent and eliminating mosquito breeding sites. There are precautions you can take to reduce your risk of being bitten by mosquitoes. Insect repellants can be effective at reducing insect bites but should be used with caution. Most repellants contain the active ingredient DEET and should only be used as directed on the product label. There are new repellants approved for use in New York State. DEET, Permethrin, Picaridin, and Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus are all registered in NY. They come under various trade names, and various so it is recommended that you pay attention to the labels, and advise others to do the same. Insect repellant should not be put on the hands and faces of young children. Since mosquitoes that feed during the day and evening have been found to carry the West Nile Virus, it is important to use repellant and wear long pants and long sleeved shirts when outdoors. Make sure all windows and doors are screened and repair any that are damaged. It is also important to keep your yard trimmed since tall grass and weeds provide suitable habitat for adult mosquitoes. People need to remember that stagnant water can help mosquitoes grow. Mosquito larvae can hatch in water left standing for four days. Sources of standing water should be eliminated as follows: Dispose of tin cans, plastic containers, ceramic pots or similar water-holding containers. Remove discarded tires Drill holes in the bottoms of all recycling containers that are kept outdoors. Turn over plastic wading pools and wheelbarrows when not in use. Change the water in birdbaths every three days. Sweep driveways so they are free of puddles. Keep storm drains clear of leaves and debris so that water may drain properly. Use landscaping to eliminate stagnant water that collects on property. Clean clogged roof gutters Clean and chlorinate swimming pools, outdoor saunas and hot tubs. Drain water from pool covers. Clean vegetation and debris from edges of ponds. By following these precautions you can help protect yourself and your family. J:\Environmental\Environm\WPDATA\WestNileVirus\educational information\WEST NILE VIRUS Season amend 8'10.doc