After a blissfully slow start to mosquito season, it’s time to get back into reality and resume the constant battle against mosquitoes and the diseases their annoying bites can spread.
Mosquitoes in Bay County have tested positive for Jamestown Canyon virus, prompting the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services to put out a notice urging Michiganders to protect against mosquito bites.
Other mosquito-borne illnesses like Eastern Equine Encephalitis and West Nile were threats last year and are expected to return this season. West Nile caused seven deaths last year.
Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, MDHHS chief medical executive said, “It only takes one bite from an infected mosquito to cause a severe illness. “
Bagdasarian said MDHHS urges Michiganders to take precautions such as using an EPA-registered insect repellent when outdoors, avoiding areas where mosquitoes are present if possible, and wearing clothing to cover arms and legs to prevent bites.
Residents can stay healthy by using simple, effective strategies to protect themselves and their families. The following steps are recommended to avoid mosquito-borne diseases:
Apply insect repellents that contain the active ingredient DEET, or other EPA-approved products to exposed skin or clothing. Always follow the manufacturer’s directions for use.
Wear light-colored, long-sleeved shirts and long pants when outdoors. Apply insect repellent to clothing to help prevent bites.
Maintain window and door screening to help keep mosquitoes outside.
Empty water from mosquito breeding sites around the home, such as buckets, unused kiddie pools, old tires or similar sites where mosquitoes lay eggs.
Reporting for WGRT – Jennie McClelland
