VALDOSTA, Georgia (WALB) – Public health officials are encouraging South Georgians to take precautions against mosquitoes when they are outdoors.
The Southern Health District received two confirmed reports of West Nile Virus through mosquito testing in Lowndes County and one confirmed case of Eastern Equine Encephalitis in an EMU in Lanier County.
“While we see reports of mosquito-borne diseases every year, it is crucial for us to remember the importance of preventing mosquito bites whenever possible,” said Dr. William Grow, district health director. “Although most people do not get sick after being bitten by a mosquito, some people develop a mild illness and, rarely, some develop a serious or long-lasting illness. Serious cases of mosquito-borne illness can put life in danger “.
According to the Southern Health District, most mosquito-borne diseases are transmitted to humans and animals through the bite of an infected mosquito.
Here are some tips to prevent mosquito bites:
- Use insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, or lemon eucalyptus oil on exposed skin and / or clothing.
- Wear long sleeves and pants when the weather permits.
- Have safe, intact screens on windows and doors to keep mosquitoes away.
- Eliminate mosquito breeding sites by emptying standing water from flower pots, buckets, barrels, children’s pools, and other containers. Drill holes in the tire swings to drain the water.
- Be sure to wear repellent and wear protective clothing from dusk to dawn or consider indoor activities during these times due to peak mosquito bites.
“Although it is rare for a human to become infected with these diseases, the risk is higher for people who spend a lot of time outdoors, live in forested or swampy areas, or have traveled abroad to certain areas,” Grow said.
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