Monroe Health Department Warns of Mosquito Dangers

From the Office of Steve Vavrek, First Selectman of Monroe

MONROE, CT — On July 16, 2016, the State Mosquito Management Program announced that mosquitoes trapped in Stamford tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV). These results represent the first WNV positive mosquitoes identified in the state by the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station (CAES) this year.

"Although there is much concern about the possible introduction of Zika virus, we should not lose sight of mosquito-borne diseases like WNV that are already established in Connecticut and reemerge every summer." said Dr. Theodore Andreadis, Director of the CAES.

The Monroe Health Department reminds residents to reduce the risk of being bitten by mosquitoes and take steps necessary to protect themselves from mosquito-borne diseases.

. Weather permitting, wear long sleeves, socks and closed-toe shoes, long pants, light colors and a hat that protects your head.
. Use insect repellent. If you're also using sunscreen, put it on first, about 20 minutes before applying the repellent. Treat clothing and outdoor gear with repellent. Check the product label for specific application instructions.
. Reduce mosquitoes around your home. Eliminate standing water, where mosquitoes breed. Unclog roof gutters. Empty children's wading pools and change water in birdbaths at least weekly. Get rid of old tires or items that may collect water in your yard.
. Repair any tears in the screens on your windows, doors and camping gear, use mosquito netting over strollers and cribs or when sleeping outdoors.

For additional information on mosquitoes and ways to reduce exposure, visit the Edith Wheeler Memorial Library mosquito display, or go to the Monroe Health Department website at http://www.monroect.org/health.

Join us at the Monroe Farmer's Market on July 22, 2016 beginning at 3:00 PM. The Monroe Health Department is offering free mosquito dunks to town residents while supplies last.

Image via Flickr Creative Commons