CHAMPAIGN COUNTY, IL (Chambana Today) – The Champaign-Urbana Public Health District has reported the detection of West Nile Virus in the local bird and mosquito populations via testing.
Here are some tips to help protect you and your family:
DRAIN
Drain standing water. To reduce the mosquito population near your home, regularly empty any standing water from containers such as flowerpots, gutters, buckets, pool covers, pet water dishes, discarded tires, and birdbaths.
MOSQUITO-PROOF
Mosquito-proof your home. Installing or repairing screens on windows and doors is essential to prevent mosquitoes from entering.
APPLY
Apply insect repellent when outdoors. The Centers for Disease Control advises using insect repellent products that contain active ingredients registered with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for application on skin and clothing.
WEAR
When the weather allows, it’s advisable to wear long sleeves, pants, and socks while outside. Mosquitoes can bite through thin fabric, so applying a repellent with permethrin or another EPA-approved repellent to your clothes can offer additional protection.
Be vigilant in using insect repellent and in wearing protective clothing from dusk till dawn or think about staying indoors during these hours. The Culex mosquitoes, which are the primary vectors for West Nile Virus, are most active during this time.