05/14/2016
Health Department Urges Removal Of Mosquito Habitats
Because of the recent rains and warming weather, Parke County Sanitarian/Health Inspector Liddy Dowd-Wright wants to remind everyone that an important part of mosquito control around your home is making sure that mosquitoes don't have a place to lay their eggs. Because mosquitoes need water for two stages of their life cycle, it's important to monitor standing water sources. Get rid of standing water in rain gutters, old tires, buckets, plastic covers, toys or any other container where mosquitoes can breed. Empty and change the water in bird baths, fountains, wading pools, rain barrels and potted plant trays at least once a week to eliminate potential mosquito habitats. Drain temporary pools of water or fill with dirt. Keep swimming pool water treated and circulating.
Report dead birds or standing water to the Department of Health by calling (765) 569-4071. Dead birds may be a sign that mosquito-borne disease is circulating between birds and the mosquitoes in an area. By reporting dead birds, you can help us with our monitoring and surveillance efforts.
Steps that will reduce your exposure to misquotes include:
Limit time spent outdoors during peak mosquito biting times. Peak times tend to be at dawn and dusk, but some mosquitoes bite during the day.
Wear loose, light-colored, long sleeves and pants. Covering up exposed skin will help reduce the chances of getting bitten.
Use a repellant that contains DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus or IR3535. Repellants can be used on children, 2 months and older, but check the label before applying. Apply the repellent to clothing and exposed skin according to the label instructions.
Purchase a hand-fogger or use a barrier spray when working outside or having a backyard party. You can also mix 2 tablespoons of malathion with a gallon of water. Spray this under bushes and high weeds. The mixture will kill adult mosquitoes resting on leaves and branches.
For more information visit the State Board of Health’s site at http://www.in.gov/isdh/23443.htm
Note: This message is displayed if (1) your browser is not standards-compliant or (2) you have you disabled CSS. Read our Policies for more information.
