West Nile Virus Precautions

Whether we like it or not, West Nile Virus is in Florida. The Florida Department of Health reported its first case of animal West Nile Virus in February, 2002. By now you realize that the West Nile Virus is spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. What you may not know is that most mosquito bites are from mosquitos from our own yards. If you are being bitten, you or your neighbors are probably growing them. Mosquitos spend part of their life in water. Without water they will die. You can help control mosquitos by removing standing water.

Here are some suggestions for reducing the mosquito populations around our homes.

• Start with a walk through your property.
• Are there any areas of standing water?
• Look for buckets or plant saucers that may collect water.
• Kiddie pools should be emptied when not in use.
• If you have bromeliads in your yard, flush them with a strong stream of water at least once a week.
• If you have a pond, consider stocking it with mosquito fish. Gambusia is another name for these mosquito larvae eating fish. You can order them from the internet or look under Afish ponds@ in the yellow pages.
• Old tires are a great place for mosquitos to breed. Empty them often or store them in a dry area.
• Boat covers often collect water and should be emptied regularly.

These precautions, along with the use of repellent, long sleeves, and avoiding the outdoors at dawn and dusk will go a long way in reducing your chances of contracting West Nile Virus.

By: Cindell Alles