NEWS RELEASE — The Escambia County Health Department advises the public to “Drain and Cover” to protect against mosquitoes.

Drain standing water in and around your home to prevent mosquitoes from laying eggs, and cover your body to protect against bites.

“Mosquitoes may be more prevalent during and after rainy periods,” says Health Department  director Dr. John J. Lanza. “Individuals should do all they can to avoid mosquito bites, in order to prevent the spread of infections carried by the insect.”

To protect yourself:

Drain standing water.

§  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. Water held in open containers in your house is also a potential breeding location for mosquitoes.

§  Discard old tires, bottles, pots, broken appliances and other items that are not being used.

§  Empty and clean birdbaths and pets’ water bowls at least twice a week.

§  When protecting boats and vehicles from rain, ensure that tarps do not accumulate water.

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

Cover skin with clothing or repellent and cover doors and windows.

§  Clothing - Wear shoes, socks, long pants and long sleeves when mosquitoes are most prevalent.

§  Use repellents with DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR3535.

§  Always use repellents according to the label. Using too much repellent doesn’t make it work better or last longer.

§  Re-apply mosquito repellent as often as needed to prevent mosquito landings and bites.

§  When using repellent on children, apply to your hands first and then rub on their arms and legs.

§  Instead of repellent, use mosquito netting to protect children younger than 2 months old.

§  Place screens on windows, doors, porches, and patios. Always repair broken screens.

Details: Visit www.EscambiaHealth.com.

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