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The Villages
Thursday, March 28, 2024

Sumter County officials warn of mosquito-borne disease activity

Sumter County Mosquito Control Services is reminding residents that mosquito season is far from being over.

Currently, numerous counties in Florida are experiencing an increase in mosquito-borne disease activity. The Florida Department of Health has issued mosquito-borne illness advisories/alerts for Alachua, Clay, Columbia, Levy, Lafayette, Marion, Pasco, Santa Rosa, Suwannee, Volusia, Washington, Miami-Dade, Palm Beach and St. Lucie counties.

These counties have had a confirmed case or cases of West Nile Virus, Eastern Equine Encephalitis, Dengue Fever or Chikungunya Fever, in humans or animals. While Sumter County has not experienced mosquito-borne disease activity yet, we would advise citizens to remain vigilant around their homes and avoid contact with mosquitoes if possible.

To reduce mosquito populations around your home, you should “Drain and Cover” in the following ways:

• Discard old tires, drums, broken appliances, containers that aren’t being used.

• Empty bird baths and pet’s water bowls at least twice a week.

• Maintain swimming pools in good condition and chlorinate. Empty plastic swimming pools when not in use.

• Protect boats and vehicles from rain with tarps or covers, or drain so that water does not accumulate.

• Drain water from buckets, coolers, toys, flower pots, or other containers where water may accumulate.

Tips for avoiding and/or repelling mosquitoes:

• Dress – Wear shoes, socks, long pants, and long-sleeves. This type of protection may be necessary for people who must work in areas where mosquitoes are present.

• Avoid being outdoors when mosquitoes are most active (dusk and dawn).

• Repair broken screening on windows, doors, porches and patios to keep mosquitoes out of your home.

• Apply mosquito repellent to bare skin and clothing according to the label. Some repellents are not suitable for use with children.

Mosquitoes are more prevalent in wooded and swampy areas, and tend to be most active during dawn and dusk hours. Use insect repellent before going into high-risk areas or when outside during high-risk times. The most effective protection may be obtained through the use of products containing at least 30 percent N,N-diethyl-m-toluamide (DEET)*. Other approved repellants contain picaridin, oil of eucalyptus or IR3535. These products are usually available at local pharmacies. Follow the directions carefully and do not over apply.  Extra care should be taken with children under 5 years old, adults over age 55, and those with weakened immune systems due to chronic illness, as these populations are at a greater risk from mosquito-borne diseases. Proper vaccination of horses will protect them from contracting Eastern Equine Encephalitis and West Nile Virus.

If you have any questions, concerns, or requests for mosquito control operations in your area, call Sumter County at 352-689-4400.

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