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From the state of Massachusetts: West Nile virus was detected in mosquitoes biting birds in Salem and one human case was reported in Salem at the end of September. With the cooler temperatures and the end of the season, mosquito activity will continue to decline, and no action such as spraying will be undertaken by the City at that time. Nevertheless, residents can help protect themselves and their loved ones from mosquito bites, especially those who practice outdoor activities after dusk, with some common sense precautions:
Avoid mosquito bites
· Be aware of mosquito rush hours – The hours from dusk to dawn are rush hours for many mosquitoes. Consider rescheduling outdoor activities that take place in the evening or early morning. Otherwise, be sure to use protective clothing and mosquito repellent.
· Clothing can help reduce mosquito bites. While it may be hard to do when it's hot, wearing long sleeves, long pants and socks while outdoors will help keep mosquitoes away from your skin.
· Apply an insect repellent when you go out. Use an insect repellent containing DEET (N, N-diethyl-m-toluamide), permethrin, picaridine (KBR 3023), IR3535 or lemon eucalyptus oil. [p-methane 3, 8-diol (PMD)] according to the instructions of the product label. DEET products should not be used in infants less than two months of age and should be used at concentrations up to 30% in older children. The lemon eucalyptus oil should not be used in children under three years old. Permethrin products are intended for use on items such as clothing, shoes, mosquito nets and camping equipment and should not be applied to the skin.
Mosquito-Proof Your home
· Drain stagnant water – Mosquitoes lay their eggs in stagnant water. Limit the number of places around your house where mosquitoes can reproduce by draining or removing objects containing 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 screens – Some mosquitoes like to come inside. Keep them outside by installing tightly fitting mosquito nets on all your doors and windows.
WNV information and reports on WNV activity in Massachusetts are available on the MDPH website at http://www.mass.gov/dph/wnv. Information recorded on WNV is also available by calling the MDPH Public Health Information Line at 1-866-MASS-WNV (1-866-627-7968).
Image via Shuttershock
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