Residents urged to take precautions to prevent mosquito bites
Grand River Mosquito Control District collected mosquitoes that tested positive for West Nile virus. This is the first confirmed West Nile activity in mosquitoes in Mesa County this year. As we enter monsoon season and experience heavier rainfall, taking measures to control mosquito populations near your home and on your property will reduce your risk of bites and West Nile virus.
How to control mosquito populations near your home:
- Find and eliminate their breeding sites – standing water. Mosquitoes lay groups of eggs on the surface of water in rain barrels, bird baths, tin cans, old tires, car bodies, cisterns, roof gutters and any other containers that hold water.
- Drill holes in the bottom of recycling containers.
- Clean pet water dishes regularly.
- Change the water in bird baths at least once a week.
How to protect against mosquitoes:
- Use EPA-approved repellents that include active ingredients such as DEET, picaridin, IR. 3535 or oil of lemon eucalyptus.
- Apply repellents sparingly, only to exposed skin. Saturation does not increase efficacy.
- Wear light colored, loose fitting clothing, and long sleeves and pants, especially at dawn and dusk.
- Avoid applying repellents to portions of children’s hands that are likely to have contact with eyes or mouth.
- Avoid using repellents on wounds or irritated skin and wash repellent-treated skin after coming indoors.
About one in five people infected with West Nile virus develop symptoms such as fever, headache, body aches and fatigue. Sometimes the virus can lead to more serious complications such as meningitis and encephalitis. If symptoms occur, contact your health care provider right away.