With the flooding produced by Hurricane Ian, the Florida Department of Health in Orange County reminds residents and visitors of the importance of protecting themselves against mosquito-borne diseases.
Mosquito eggs laid in the soil during previous floods can hatch and result in very large populations. Most of these mosquitoes are considered nuisance mosquitoes, however it’s essential to protect yourself and your family from mosquito-borne illness.
Standing Water Breeds Mosquitoes
• Remove standing water where mosquitoes could lay eggs. Empty and scrub, turn over, cover, or throw out any items that hold water like tires, tarps, buckets, planters, toys, pools, birdbaths, flowerpot saucers, or trash containers.
Keep Mosquitoes Outside
• Check and repair screens on doors and windows. Keep them closed and use air conditioning when possible.
• Close doors, including garage doors. Do not leave doors propped open.
Protect Yourself and Your Family
• Cover your skin. Wear shoes, socks, long pants and long sleeves.
• Spray bare skin and clothing with repellent. Use spray with DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR3535. Follow label instructions carefully.
• Do not apply insect repellent to a child’s hands, eyes, mouth, cuts, or irritated skin. Spray insect repellent onto your hands and then apply to a child’s face.
• Mosquito spray is not safe for children under 2 months old, use mosquito netting to protect them.
About the Florida Department of Health
The department, nationally accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board, works to protect, promote, and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county, and community efforts.
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