Title: West Nile Virus Case Prompts Mosquito-Borne Illness Advisory in Sarasota County
The Department of Health in Sarasota County has issued an advisory for mosquito-borne illnesses after confirming a case of West Nile Virus in early September. The affected individual has already received proper treatment, but residents are urged to remain vigilant due to the risk of transmission to humans.
Fortunately, surveillance efforts have shown no significant increase in mosquito-borne disease activity within sentinel chicken flocks or mosquito pools so far. However, the Department of Health emphasizes the importance of taking precautions to reduce exposure to mosquitoes.
One crucial step residents can take is to eliminate mosquito breeding grounds by draining standing water. This includes emptying containers such as trash cans and rain barrels, as well as discarding any unused items that collect stagnant water. Additionally, considering treating or removing bromeliad plants can help prevent mosquito breeding in households.
To protect themselves from mosquito bites, residents are advised to cover their skin by wearing loose-fitting clothes that cover their arms and legs, along with shoes and socks as an added layer of protection. Applying EPA-registered insect repellents to both bare skin and clothing is also recommended.
Furthermore, it is crucial to ensure that windows, doors, porches, and patios have proper screening to prevent mosquitoes from entering the house. Doors should be kept closed whenever possible, and the use of air conditioning can help minimize mosquito presence indoors.
The Department of Health’s advisory underlines the significance of staying informed and taking necessary precautions to combat mosquito-borne illnesses. By doing so, residents can help mitigate the risk of infections like West Nile Virus.
Remember, copyright 2023 WWSB. All rights reserved. Stay updated with the latest information and follow the Department of Health’s guidelines to protect yourself and your community from mosquito-borne illnesses.
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