Preventing mosquito bites

Drain and Cover

Vector-Borne Disease Surveillance Coordinator

Whether you’re staying at home or traveling abroad, preventing mosquito bites is the best way to reduce the risk of mosquito-borne disease. Mosquitoes can be found in many different environments and you may not always notice when you have been bitten. Mosquito activity in Florida can be year round. The following are some steps that can be taken to help prevent mosquito bites.

DRAIN: water from garbage cans, house. Drain standing water from birdbaths, garbage cans, and other containers that can collect water.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:Screened entry way's prevent mosquitoes!The water balance (poolchemistry) 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.

Use insect repellant and use netting to protect children younger than 2 months.

5th May 2020 Florida Health, Vector-Borne Disease Surveillance Coordinator