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Recent heavy rains have allowed the grass to grow – they have also helped to increase the mosquito population.
According to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, precipitation has created stagnant water in normally dry areas. Stagnant water is fertile ground for mosquitoes.
"Mosquitoes can grow in flood waters, but also in surprisingly low water volumes in containers, abundant in our courtyards and neighborhoods in the form of rain barrels, ponds, bird baths , old tires, planters, gutters, etc. holds water, "according to a DNR press release.
In addition to annoyance and itching from the bite, mosquitoes can also carry diseases, including West Nile virus.
Evidence of West Nile was found in Kenosha County earlier this summer, when a dead raven found on July 31 was tested positive for the virus.
"The positive bird means that Kenosha County residents must be more vigilant in their personal protective measures to prevent mosquito bites," said Cynthia Johnson, health officer / public health director of the county of Kenosha. Kenosha.
West Nile virus is transmitted to humans by the bite of an infected mosquito. Mosquitoes acquire the virus by feeding on infected birds.
According to information from the Kensoha County Health Division, the majority of people (80%) infected with West Nile virus do not get sick.
Those who become ill usually experience mild symptoms such as fever, headache, muscle aches, rashes, and fatigue.
Less than 1% of people infected with the virus are seriously ill and have symptoms such as high fever, muscle weakness, stiff neck, disorientation, mental confusion, tremors, confusion, paralysis and coma.
Elderly people and those with weakened immune systems are at higher risk of developing a potentially fatal disease of the central nervous system.
"The people of Kenosha County need to be aware of West Nile virus and take simple steps to protect themselves from mosquito bites," said Johnson. "The West Nile virus is here to stay, so the best way to avoid the disease is to reduce exposure and eliminate mosquito breeding areas."
Eliminate their
Breeding areas
Residents are encouraged to do the following to eliminate mosquito breeding sites:
Remove and discard garbage that contains water, such as old tires, sagging plastic bags or any container containing water.
Weekly inspect the water contained in the flower pots and plant containers for stagnant standing water or gaffes.
Change the water in the birdbaths and wading pools frequently. Empty them when they are not used.
Unclog the gutters so that the water does not form.
Drain and fill the stagnant water, puddles, ditches or any wet areas around your house and property.
Eliminate weeds and vegetation from the edges of ponds, near houses and in neighboring lots – adult mosquitoes hide there.
Using biocontrol products that contain Bti, a natural mosquito larvicide, can be purchased online and at most lawn and garden stores. These products, usually donut shaped or pelletized, are placed in stagnant water to kill mosquito larvae. They control mosquito larvae for 30 days, but are harmless to humans, pets, birds, fish and other wildlife.
Cover tanks, catch basins, septic tanks, fire drums, rain barrels and bathtubs.
Use sand to fill the holes in the trees.
Remove tree stumps that retain water.
Additional tips
Inside the house, keep mosquito nets and windows in good condition. Use weather stripping to fill gaps around windows and doors.
Remember that mosquitoes also bite animals; provide shelter for domestic animals inside the house or in protected areas.
If you have to go out at dawn or dusk when mosquitoes are the most active, take precautions to avoid getting bitten.
Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants that are thick enough to prevent the mouth of mosquitoes from reaching the skin.
Wear light tones – dark colors attract mosquitoes.
Use repellents on exposed skin. Use an insect repellent containing DEET, IR3535, pcardidine or lemon eucalyptus oil.
Lemongrass can be useful if the air is still.
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