For immediate release: Monday, October 06, 2014

Contact: Stefany Strong, Public Information Officer, 386-274-0838

MOSQUITO-BORNE DISEASE ALERT ISSUED FOR VOLUSIA COUNTY
--Additional Human Case of West Nile Virus Illness Confirmed--

DAYTONA BEACH -Today, Florida Department of Health in Volusia County Director Dr. Bonnie J. Sorensen has issued a mosquito-borne illness alert for Volusia County after a third human case of West Nile virus has been confirmed.

There is a heightened concern additional residents will become ill.

DOH continues to advise the public to remain diligent in their personal mosquito protection efforts. These should include remembering “Drain and Cover”.

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 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 skin with clothing or repellent

• 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.

  • Always use repellents according to the label. Repellents with DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, and IR3535 are effective.

  • Use mosquito netting to protect children younger than 2 months old.

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

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

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.

• Products with concentrations of up to 30 percent DEET (N,N-diethyl-m-toluamide) are generally recommended. Other US Environmental Protection Agency-approved repellents contain Picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR3535. These products are generally available at local pharmacies. Look for active ingredients to be listed on the product label.