On Aug. 2, the Board of Health was notified of a mosquito testing positive for West Nile virus in Mattapoisett. The Mattapoisett Board of Health wants to remind residents that people have an important role to play in protecting themselves and their loved ones from illnesses caused by mosquitoes.
The public can take simple and effective prevention steps to reduce the chance of being bitten by mosquitoes.
Be Aware of Peak Mosquito Hours: The hours from dusk to dawn are peak biting times for many mosquitoes. Consider rescheduling outdoor activities that occur during evening or early morning.
Clothing Can Help Reduce Mosquito Bites: Wearing long sleeves, long pants, and socks when outdoors will help keep mosquitoes away from your skin.
Apply Insect Repellent When Outdoors: Use a repellent with DEET, permethrin, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus. DEET products should not be used on infants under two months of age and should be used in concentrations of 30 percent or less on older children. Oil of lemon eucalyptus should not be used on children under three years of age.
Drain Standing Water: Mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water. Limit the number of places around your home for mosquitoes to breed by either draining or discarding items that hold water. Check rain gutters and drains. Empty any unused flowerpots and wading pools, and change water in birdbaths frequently. ‘
Install or Repair Screens: Keep mosquitoes outside by having tight-fitting screens on all on your windows and doors.
These measures should be followed until the first hard killing frost that occurs in the second or third week of October.
For further information, please feel free to contact the Board of Health office at 508-758-4100 ext. 8.