07-27-10 County Executive and Health Commissioner Remind Residents about West Nile Virus Prevention

COUNTY EXECUTIVE AND HEALTH COMMISSIONER REMIND RESIDENTS TO PREPARE FOR THE POSSIBLITY OF WEST NILE AGAIN THIS YEAR

The hot weather is here again and now is the time to take a look around your property for water collecting, mosquito breeding areas.  With the prediction of some rainy weather ahead in the forecast, expect that rain may be collecting in garbage cans, bird baths, or even baby pools and dog dishes in your yard. Orange County Executive Edward A. Diana and Commissioner of Health Jean Hudson, MD, want residents to be aware that mosquito season is here and will be a threat until the first frost.  County residents need to check around their property for areas such as old tires, receptacles holding water, stagnant ponds or pools, and leaky outdoor faucets where water can collect.  House gutters should be cleaned and screens fixed to prevent mosquitoes from getting in the home.  Residents should be aware that trapping being performed by SUNY Orange has already shown a great increase in mosquito numbers compared to the previous three years.

“Personal protection during mosquito season is also very important,” said Dr. Hudson.  “Since mosquitoes are most active between dusk and dawn, wearing protective clothing, socks and shoes when outdoors will help protect the skin.”  Dr. Hudson further noted that perfume products might attract mosquitoes.  In addition, you may want to consider using insect repellents containing DEET.  Follow label directions carefully. Use repellents containing DEET on clothing and sparingly on skin. Adults should apply repellent on younger children. Do not apply repellents to face or hands and apply aerosol spray outdoors. Wash repellents off with soap and water when returning indoors.

For more information on West Nile Virus prevention please contact the Health Department at 291-2332.