Residents urged to protect themselves from mosquitoes in wake of Hurricane Irma

Due to floodwaters and rainfall from Hurricane Irma, mosquito populations are expected to be larger than normal for the immediate future. Florida Department of Health officials want Florida’s residents and visitors to be mindful of protecting themselves against mosquito-borne diseases during this time. Everyone should remain diligent in preventative measures like draining excess water and covering their skin.

DRAIN standing water to stop mosquitoes from multiplying.

·         Drain water from garbage cans, house gutters, buckets, pool covers, coolers, toys, flower pots or any other containers where sprinkler or rain water has collected.

·         Discard old tires, drums, bottles, cans, pots and pans, broken appliances and other items that aren’t being used.

·         Empty and clean birdbaths and pet’s water bowls at least once to twice a week.

·         Protect boats and vehicles from rain with tarps that don’t accumulate water.

·         Maintain swimming pools in good condition and keep them appropriately chlorinated. Empty plastic swimming pools when not in use.

COVER skin with clothing or repellent.

• Clothing – Wear shoes, socks, and long pants and long-sleeves. This type of protection may be necessary for people working in areas where mosquitoes are present.
• Repellent – Apply mosquito repellent to bare skin and clothing. See Tips on Repellent Use below for additional instructions related to children.

• Always use repellents according to the label. Repellents with DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, para-menthane-diol, and IR3535 are effective.
• Use mosquito netting to protect children younger than 2 months old.

Tips on Repellent Use

• Always read label directions carefully for the approved usage before you apply a repellent. Some repellents are not suitable for children.
• In protecting children, read label instructions to be sure the repellent is age-appropriate. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, mosquito repellents containing oil of lemon eucalyptus should not be used on children under the age of three years. DEET is not recommended on children younger than two months old.
• Apply insect repellent to exposed skin or onto clothing (but not under clothing).
• Avoid applying repellents onto children’s hands. Adults should apply repellent first to their own hands and then transfer it to the child’s skin and clothing.
• If additional protection is necessary, apply a permethrin repellent directly to your clothing. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s directions.
• Products with concentrations of up to 30 percent DEET (N, N-diethyl-m-toluamide) are generally recommended. Other U.S. Environmental Protection Agency-approved repellents contain picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, para-menthane-diol, or IR3535. These products are generally available at local pharmacies. Look for active ingredients to be listed on the product label.

·         To determine which repellent is right for you, consider using the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s search tool for skin-applied repellent products:http://cfpub.epa.gov/oppref/insect/#searchform.

COVER doors and windows with screens to keep mosquitoes out of your house.

• Repair broken screening on windows, doors, porches, and patios.