County Offers Tips on Mosquito Control to Prevent West Nile Virus

For Immediate Release: Friday, May 28, 2004

Health officials today urged Montgomery County residents to begin identifying and eliminating mosquito breeding sites on their property to prevent West Nile Virus.

“West Nile Virus will likely return to Montgomery County this summer,” said County Health Officer Dr. Ulder J. Tillman. “Getting rid of mosquito breeding sites and protecting against mosquito bites are the most effective preventive measures people can take to protect against this disease.”

Mosquitoes that feed on infected birds carry West Nile Virus, and mosquitoes transmit the virus to humans, birds and some other mammals. The virus can cause a range of illnesses-- from mild flu-like symptoms to encephalitis, a brain infection, and even death. Most people, however, can be infected and have no symptoms at all.

Getting rid of places where mosquitoes breed is the most important prevention measure to take, according to health officials.

• Eliminate standing water where mosquitoes breed: discard used tires, clean roof gutters and down-spout screens, eliminate standing water on flat roofs, turn over plastic wading pools, wheelbarrows, canoes and garbage can lids, fix dripping water faucets, eliminate puddles from window air-conditioners, and flush birdbaths and the bottom of potted plant holder trays twice a week.

• Protect against mosquito bites: avoid outdoor activities in early morning and dusk, wear long sleeve shirts and long pants outdoors, fix or replace screens that have holes, and use insect repellents (for adults, 20-30% DEET). Consult your pediatrician for the appropriate insect repellent for children.

For more information about West Nile Virus, visit Montgomery County’s Department of Environmental Protection web site at www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dep and click on “West Nile Virus”.

For more information:

Maryland Public Health Hot Topics Line (recorded information) 1-866-866-CROW (2769), Used Tire Disposal: 301 840-2370 Stagnant Water on Private Property (Dept. of Housing & Community Affairs) 240 777-3600, Storm Drain Blockage (Dept. of Public Works & Transportation) 240 777-7623, Storm Water Ponds (Dept. of Environmental Protection) 240 777-7700, Communicable Disease Program (Dept. of Health & Human Services) 240 777-1755, Release ID: 04-243
Media Contact: Mary Anderson 240-777-6534