Health Officials Warn After Arlington Mosquitoes Are Positive For West Nile Virus – Boston News, Weather, Sports

ARLINGTON, MASS. (WHDH) – Health Authorities warn residents of Arlington and surrounding communities to take precautions to prevent mosquito bites after several pools have been tested positive for West Nile Virus

The Director of Health Arlington Public Health, Natasha Waden, said in a statement that the virus, which can cause a serious infection in the elderly, has not been detected this year, but Waden urges residents in the region "We want to remind residents that the possibility of contracting a mosquito-borne disease remains as long as West Nile virus circulates in the area," said Waden. "We advise residents to be smart when they are outdoors, especially at dawn and dusk, and to take precautions at home to prevent mosquito breeding."

The Council Arlington Health recommends the following safety tips:

Mosquito -Proof Your Home:

Empty stagnant water. Mosquitoes lay their eggs in stagnant water. Limit the number of places around your house for mosquitoes to reproduce by draining or throwing objects that retain water. Check the gutters and drains. Empty unused flower pots and wading pools and frequently change the water of the bird baths.
Install or repair mosquito nets. Keep mosquitoes outside by having neat mosquito nets on all your windows and doors.

Avoid mosquito bites:

Apply an insect repellent to the outside. Use a repellent with DEET (N, N-diethyl-m-toluamide), permethrin, picaridine (KBR 3023), eucalyptus lemon oil [p-methane 3, 8-diol (PMD)] or IR3535 according to the instructions on the 39, product label. DEET products should not be used in infants less than two months of age and should be used at concentrations of 30% or less in older children. Lemon eucalyptus oil should not be used on children under 3 years old.

Be aware of mosquito rush hours. The hours that go from dusk to dawn are the most difficult times for many mosquitoes. Consider postponing outdoor activities that take place in the evening or early in the morning.
Clothes can help reduce mosquito bites. Wearing long sleeves, long pants and socks on the outside will help keep mosquitoes off your skin

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