Fact Sheets : Mosquito Bite Prevention
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The best way to reduce the risk of West Nile virus infection is to try to prevent mosquito bites. If West Nile virus activity is detected in your area:
Limit time spent outdoors at dawn and dusk, when many mosquitoes are most active
Wear light-colored protective clothing such as long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and a hat when outdoors in areas where mosquitoes are present
A long sleeve shirt with snug collar and cuffs is best. The shirt should be
tucked in at the waist. Socks should be tucked over pants, hiking shoes, or
boots
Light colored clothing is best because mosquitoes tend to be more attracted to dark colors
When going outdoors use insect repellents that contain DEET or other approved ingredients
Make sure that door and window screens fit tightly and have no holes that may allow mosquitoes indoors
To avoid insect bites, do not use scented soaps, perfumes or hair sprays on your children
For young babies, mosquito netting is very effective in areas where exposure to mosquitoes is likely. Netting may be used over infant carriers or other areas where small children are placed.
Reducing the mosquito population around your home:
Mosquitoes lay eggs in standing water which grow into adults that are ready to fly. Even a small amount of water, for example, in a saucer under a flower pot, is enough to act as a breeding ground. Here are some tips on how to eliminate standing water:
Regularly drain standing water from items like pool covers, saucers under flower pots, pet bowels, pails, recycle bins, garbage cans etc.
Drill holes in the bottom of recycling bins
Change(or empty) the water in wading pools, bird baths, pet bowls and livestock watering tanks twice a week
Turn over plastic wading pools and wheel barrels when not in use
Clean and chlorinate your swimming pools. A pool left unattended for a month can produce a large number of mosquitoes
Landscape your garden as necessary to eliminate stagnant waters(mosquitoes can breed even in puddles of water that last for more than 4 days
Get rid of unused items including old tires, that have a tendency to collect water
Cover rain barrels with screens
Clean eaves troughs(roof gutters)regularly to prevent clogs that can trap water
If you have an ornamental pond, consider getting fish that will eat mosquito larvae
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For more child health and wellness information on-line, visit http://www.drpaul.com
Pediatrician DR.PAUL Roumeliotis is certified by the American Board of Pediatrics and Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. The information provided on this fact sheet is designed to be an educational aid only. It is not intended to replace the advice and care of your child's physician, nor is it intended to be used for medical diagnosis or treatment. If you suspect that your child has a medical condition always consult a physician.
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