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Health Department Emphasizes the Importance of Mosquito Protection

By FDOH Alachua Staff

June 22, 2017

For Immediate Release

Wednesday, June 21, 2017

Contact: Anthony Dennis 352-334-7930

Alachua County, FL – Significant rainfall and standing water have increased mosquito populations that will bite day and night, so it is important to protect yourself.  “The Florida Department of Health in Alachua County (FDOH-Alachua) would like to remind citizens and visitors the importance of protecting yourself by taking the following steps:” said Anthony Dennis, Environmental Health Director, Florida Department of Health in Alachua County.

Drain and Cover

DRAIN: Water from garbage cans, house gutters, 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 or twice a week.

PROTECT: Boats and vehicles from rain with tarps that don't accumulate water.

MAINTAIN: The water balance (pool chemistry) of swimming pools. Empty plastic swimming pools when not in use. Repair broken screens on windows, doors, porches, and patios.

CLOTHING: If you must be outside when mosquitoes are active, cover up. Wear shoes, socks, long pants, and long sleeves.

REPELLENT: Apply mosquito repellent to bare skin and clothing. Always use repellents according to the label. Repellents with DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, para-menthane-diol, and IR3535 are effective. Use netting to protect children younger than 2 months.

FDOH-Alachua and local mosquito control continues surveillance and prevention efforts throughout the county.  FDOH-Alachua reminds residents and visitors to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes by taking precautions to prevent mosquitoes from living and multiplying around your home or business.

Report mosquito problems to your municipality’s mosquito control or the Florida Department of Health in Alachua County at 352-334-7930

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