TMHD Reminds Residents to Follow Personal Protect Measures
to Protect Themselves from West Nile Virus
Warm weather is finally upon us. So are the mosquitoes! That is why the Trumbull Monroe Health District (TMHD) advises residents to begin to take personal and homeowner precautions to limit their exposure to mosquitoes, particularly mosquitoes infected with the West Nile virus (WNV).
West Nile virus can cause a range of symptoms, from very mild to severe. The elderly and those with compromised immune systems are most at risk. Residents are urged to avoid outdoor activities between dusk and dawn, when mosquitoes are most active. Insect repellant can be used when outdoors in mosquito infected areas.
“The best personal protection measures are ones people take themselves, staying indoors when mosquitoes are most active, and covering up or using insect repellant when outdoors,” said Patrice Sulik, TMHD Director of Health. “TMHD encourages all residents to take the following steps to prevent WNV this year.”
- Limit outdoor activities from dusk to dawn when mosquitoes are most active.
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- Wear clothing that minimizes bare skin.
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- Use mosquito repellents on clothing.
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- Follow the directions on labels for insecticides or repellents.
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- Cover arms and legs of children playing near standing water.
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- Cover playpens or carriages with mosquito netting.
Sulik reminds all residents and homeowners to remove any standing water from their property after any significant rainfall. Mosquitoes breed around the home and can be reduced significantly. Here are some tips:
- Remove objects that can hold standing water such as tin cans, tires, buckets, or bottles.
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- Fill in holes, ditches, or tree trunks with sand or cement.
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- Clean house gutters on a regular basis.
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- Empty wading pools and bird baths every 4-7 days.
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- Chlorinate swimming pools regularly.
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- Eliminate collected water on boat and pool covers.
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- Avoid over-watering of lawns.
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- Fix holes in screens and attach properly to windows.
For more information contact the TMHD at 452-5195.
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The mission of the Trumbull Monroe Health District is to protect the health of residents, and to prevent disease. For more information on the Trumbull Monroe Health District call 452-5195, Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.