About Families Online

Feature Articles for July 2003

Summertime brings thoughts of outdoor grilling, swimming, and just taking in the great outdoors. Unfortunately, this is also a time when insects thrive. One of the pests of this otherwise enjoyable season is the mosquito. This always-uninvited party guest makes a living out of ruining summertime fun. In light of the upcoming summer season, here are some helpful tips on how to protect your family from mosquitoes and potentially acquiring the West Nile Virus.

Activities occurring during dawn and dusk should be curtailed to limit exposure to mosquitoes. Mosquito activity is at its peak during these times. It is advisable to wear long sleeves or pants, closed shoes, and an insect repellant (be sure to follow the directions carefully) when participating in outdoor activities during that time.

Your house and yard should also be inspected. Screens should be checked, tightly secured and repaired to prevent mosquito access into your home. It is essential to dispose of or turn over any containers, tires, or toys that may collect water. Make sure that your gutters and spouting remain free of leaves or anything that may potentially cause them to get clogged, and as a result, collect water. This includes leaky faucets as well. Standing water of any kind is a potential mosquito-breeding site. If you can eliminate potential-breeding sites then you greatly reduce the amount of mosquitoes around your property. Swimming pools, plastic wading pools, ornamental pools, and water gardens can also be a problem breeding area. Pools should be chlorinated and ornamental pools and water gardens should be aerated and/or stocked with fish. Maintaining pools and landscape areas is imperative to eliminate mosquito activity.

These are just a few tips and suggestions that can help you avoid mosquito exposure and West Nile Virus presence in your community during the spring and summer months. Following these preventative measures will ensure a healthy and safe Berks County.

For additional West Nile Virus information please refer to the following web addresses:
• Berks County Conservation District (610-372-4657)- www.co.berks.pa.us/conservation
• Department of Environmental Protection – www.dep.state.pa.us
• Department of Health – Berks County Office (610-378-4352) – www.westnile.state.pa.us
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – www.cdc.gov/ncidod/westnile/index.htm