WS Chronicle

SPECIAL TO THE CHRONICLE

As summer temperatures in North Carolina are upon us and Zika virus has been locally transmitted in a small neighborhood in Florida, the Forsyth County Department of Public Health wants to encourage residents to take basic mosquito control and protective measures against mosquito-borne disease. Whether you’re traveling out of the country or just enjoying the beautiful North Carolina weather at home, be sure to use repellants and other general protection measures against biting mosquitoes.

Mosquito-borne diseases are most commonly acquired from June to September, but the Asian Tiger mosquito can be seen in Forsyth County through October. Residents of Forsyth County can “Tip and Toss” to eliminate mosquito breeding areas and take preventive measures to reduce the likelihood of mosquito bites.

As of August 12, the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCD-HHS) has reported 33 travel-associated Zika virus cases. The first travel associated case of Zika virus in Forsyth County was report-ed in March 2016. Forsyth County Health Department is home to one of several Vector Control Programs across the state and continues regular mosquito control activities around the county.

“Mosquito control is a community effort that everyone should participate in.” said Marlon Hunter, Forsyth County Health Director.  “We can use the ‘Tip and Toss’ practices to protect ourselves and our neighbors from mosquito bites this summer.”

Basic control measures include reducing habitats for the pests and reducing exposure to them.

Tip and Toss:

*Reduce mosquito breeding opportunities by emptying standing water from flowerpots, gutters, buckets, pool covers, pet water dishes, discarded tires and birdbaths at least weekly.

*Be sure to tightly secure screens on all openings on rain barrels used for water conservation.

*Clean up any trash or leaves that may be around your home or in rain gutters.

Reduce exposure and use preventive measures:

*If you are traveling, be sure to visit the CDC website for updates on regional disease transmission patterns and outbreaks (www.cdc.gov/travel).

*Wear appropriate clothing like long-sleeved shirts or hats.

*You can also tuck in shirts and pants, and wear closed shoes instead of sandals.

*Be aware of peak exposure times and places.

*Use the appropriate insecticides and repellants for skin and clothing.

For more information on preventing mosquito-borne illnesses visit: http://www.forsyth.cc/Publ icHealth/ or call the Environmental Health Division at 336-703-3225.