Get rid of breeding grounds for mosquitoes

Following the recent heavy rains and subsequent flooding, McHenry County Department of Health was inundated with phone calls from the public on recovery efforts and health concerns.

A direct consequence has also been the recent increase in floodwater mosquitoes.

Floodwater mosquitoes can be aggressive biters and a nuisance to our outdoor activities; however, they are not significant carriers for disease in Illinois.

Floodwater mosquitoes are harder to control, as they can fly up to 10 miles per day. The Culex mosquito, which can be a carrier of West Nile virus, are container breeders and are common around your home. They will breed in stagnant ditches, old tires, clogged gutters, flower pots, bird baths and other artificial containers that hold water.

The best defense against mosquitoes and mosquito-borne illness is to eliminate the places where they breed.

MCDH encourages you to eliminate potential mosquito breeding sites around your home. Staff is available to provide consultative assistance in identifying and reducing potential breeding sites.

To date, neither birds nor mosquito pools tested since May have tested positive for West Nile virus in McHenry County.

Residents must remain vigilant, however, to reduce their risk of West Nile.

Other tips include:

•Limit your time outdoors during peak mosquito biting hours (dusk to dawn).

•If you must be outside, take extra care to use repellent and protective clothing (long-sleeves, long pants and socks) during evening and early morning.

•Spray clothes with repellent containing DEET for extra protection. Follow label instructions.

For more information on floodwater mosquitoes and West Nile virus, contact MCDH's Environmental Health Division at (815) 334-4585 or visit www.mcdh.info.