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Health Officials in Alachua County Issue Mosquito-Borne Illness Advisory - Human Case of West Nile Virus Has Been Confirmed

By Anthony Dennis

October 01, 2014

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

HEALTH OFFICIALS IN ALACHUA COUNTY ISSUE MOSQUITO-BORNE ILLNESS ADVISORY

-Human Case of West Nile Virus Has Been Confirmed-

ALACHUA COUNTY - The Florida Department of Health in Alachua County (DOH-Alachua) today confirmed a locally acquired case of West Nile virus illness. Alachua County health officials urge residents and visitors to take basic precautions to limit exposure to mosquitoes. "Avoiding mosquito bites is the key to preventing infection with West Nile virus and other mosquito-borne diseases," said Anthony Dennis, Environmental Health Director with the DOH-Alachua.

DOH-Alachua and local mosquito control continues surveillance and prevention efforts throughout the county. DOH-Alachua reminds residents and visitors to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes by taking precautions to prevent mosquitoes from living and multiplying around your home or business by remembering to drain and cover.

DRAIN standing water to stop mosquitoes from multiplying:

  • Drain water from garbage cans, house gutters, buckets, 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 with tarps that don't accumulate water.
  • Maintain swimming pools in good condition and appropriately chlorinated. Empty plastic swimming pools when not in use.

COVER skin with clothing or repellent:

  • CLOTHING - wear shoes, socks, and long pants and long-sleeves. This type of protection may be necessary for people who must work in areas where mosquitoes are present.
  • 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 old.

COVER doors and windows with screens to keep mosquitoes out of your house

  • Repair broken screening on windows, doors, porches, and patios.

Tips on Repellent Use

  • Always read label directions carefully for the approved usage before you apply a repellent.  Some repellents are not suitable for children.
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