The Florida Department of Health in Citrus County (DOH-Citrus) has advised all residents that there has been an increase in mosquito-borne disease activity in the area, according to ABC Action News.
.@FLHealthCitrus has issued a #mosquito-borne illnesses advisory due to an increase in mosquito-borne disease activity in areas of Citrus County. Take these steps to protect yourself: https://t.co/nIgJlhJvCt pic.twitter.com/FlTpFCkF9N
— Citrus Health Dept (@FLHealthCitrus) August 14, 2019
The Department of Health is reporting several sentinel chicken flocks have tested positive for West Nile virus infection. The risk of transmission to humans has increased. Citrus County Mosquito Control District and DOH-Citrus continue surveillance and prevention efforts.
Officials are reminding Citrus residents and visitors to take extra precautions to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes and to also take basic precautions to limit exposure.
DOH advises to take the steps listed below –“Drain and Cover”!
DRAIN:
- 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 or twice a week.
- Protect boats and vehicles from rain with tarps that don’t accumulate water.
- Maintain swimming pools in good condition and appropriately chlorinated. Empty plastic swimming pools when not in use.
COVER:
- Clothing – Wear shoes, socks, and long pants and long-sleeves. This type of protection may be necessary for people who must work in areas where mosquitoes are present.
- Repellent – Apply mosquito repellent to bare skin and clothing. For tips on repellent use go here.
Be sure to cover all doors and windows with screens to keep mosquitoes out of your house. Now is the time to make any necessary repairs to loose or torn screens.
