PROTECT YOURSELF FROM MOSQUITOES

Rainy season has brought about the perfect environment for increased mosquito activity. Recently, Mosquito-Borne Illnesses have been found in the state of Florida, including West Nile, dengue, Chikungunya, malaria and Oropouche. Take action to prevent the spread of illness by taking preventive measures around your home and by using repellent to protect from bites.

Tip, Toss and Treat

Mosquitoes breed in standing water. Be sure to check your yard frequently during weeks of rain. Mosquito eggs that are laid in shallow water can hatch in a day or two. The larvae grow fast, turning into a pupa that quickly develops into a full-grown mosquito. The life cycle, from egg to adult mosquito, takes eight to 10 days. The pupae become flying mosquitoes in two to three days.

• Keep plant pots and saucers free of standing water.
• Check buckets, toys, and birdbaths for pooled water.
• Flush out water-holding plants like bromeliads with a hose every week.
• Discard items where rain or sprinkler water collects. Clean pet water bowls at least twice each week, if not daily.
• Check your house and patio for torn window screens and keep windows and doors closed to prevent mosquitoes from coming inside.

Protect Yourself from Bites

If you go outdoors during a time of increased mosquito activity, like after a rainy day when there is a lot of standing water, here are some tips to help prevent being bitten by mosquitoes:

• Wear shoes, socks, long pants and long sleeves.
• Spray your skin and clothing with an insect repellent that contains DEET or other approved ingredients. Parents - Be sure the repellent you use is safe for children and age appropriate.
• Clothing and outdoor gear can be treated with products containing 0.5% permethrin. Do NOT apply permethrin directly to the skin.
• Do not wear perfumes or other fragrances, as the smell will attract mosquitoes.

Residents Can Request Mosquito Service by Broward County

In Broward, residents are encouraged to make a request for service by Mosquito Control directly. Treatment is prioritized by the number of requests in any certain area. 

Call 311 or 954-765-4062 or submit the request online at:  http://www.broward.org/Mosquito/Pages/MosquitoServiceRequest.aspx.

Resources

• Broward.org/Mosquito - Information and resources from Broward County
• Florida Department of Health Mosquito-Borne Illness Surveillance
• Centers for Disease Control - Mosquitoes - CDC.gov/Mosquitoes