Fight the bite: Protecting Holmes County from mosquito-borne illness

In recent weeks Holmes County has seen a dramatic increase in mosquito-borne illnesses, particularly LaCrosse virus. While this disease may not always make headlines like West Nile or Zika, its impact can be serious — especially for children. Symptoms may include fever, headache, nausea, vomiting and, in severe cases, swelling of the brain. With mosquito activity on the rise, now is the time for the community to take action to protect residents and families.

The good news is prevention is possible. The simplest and most effective way to avoid mosquito-borne illness is to prevent mosquito bites in the first place. A few key steps can go a long way:

—Use insect repellent. If individuals are spending time outside, especially in the early morning or evening, use an EPA-approved mosquito spray with DEET, picaridin, IR3535, Par-menthane-diol or oil of lemon eucalyptus.

—Wear protective clothing. Long sleeves and pants are a simple way to keep mosquitoes from biting. Light-colored clothing is best. Treat clothing and gear with permethrin, an insecticide that kills or repels mosquitoes.

—Dump standing water. Mosquitoes breed in small amounts of water — old tires, flowerpots, birdbaths, even clogged gutters. Take a few minutes each week to look around yards and empty anything holding water.

—Keep them out. Check window and door screens for holes.

For more information on protecting against mosquito bites, call or email the Holmes County Health Department at 330-674-5035 or info@holmeshealth.org.