Mosquito: Source: TFP File Photo HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, Fla. - The Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County (DOH-Hillsborough) is alertin
HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, Fla. – The Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County (DOH-Hillsborough) is alerting residents to a locally acquired case of West Nile Virus. The county remains under a mosquito-borne illness alert, and health officials are urging residents to take precautions to avoid mosquito bites.
DOH-Hillsborough is coordinating with Hillsborough County Mosquito Control to conduct surveillance and prevention efforts, including aerial spraying.
READ: University Of Florida Researchers Use AI, Lasers To Pioneer Precision Spraying To Combat Mosquitoes
Here are some tips to avoid mosquito bites:
- Drain standing water: Empty any containers that hold water, such as buckets, flowerpots, and birdbaths.
- Cover skin: Wear long sleeves, pants, and socks when outdoors, especially during dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.
- Use repellent: Apply mosquito repellent containing DEET or other EPA-approved ingredients.
- Repair screens: Ensure windows and doors have tight-fitting screens to keep mosquitoes out.
The Department of Health continues to monitor for various mosquito-borne illnesses, including West Nile virus, Eastern equine encephalitis, St. Louis encephalitis, malaria, chikungunya, and dengue.
READ: Florida Residents Urged To Take Precautions As Mosquito-Borne Illness Cases Rise
Residents are encouraged to report dead birds to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, as they can be an indicator of mosquito-borne illnesses in the area.
For more information, visit the Department of Health’s website or contact your county health department.
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