County Health Department: Watch Out for Skeeters

Spring and summer have their downsides too. Unfortunately, the change in temperature also means the start of another season: mosquito season.

And even more unfortunately, that now means West Nile Virus season, after the disease arrived in America about a decade ago.

However, residents can do their part to nip the problem in the bud by mosquito-proofing their yard and homes, according to a recent press release from the Montgomery County Health Department.

“West Nile virus remains an unpredictable disease, and we won't be able to tell how severe a problem it will be this year,” said Josh Shapiro, chair of the Montgomery County Board of Commissioners.  “By taking steps now, residents can help to reduce mosquito populations.”

The health department release urges residents to do the obvious: clear any standing water from their property. The release also says residents can prepare their homes by replacing torn screens, cleaning out gutters and turning over any containers that may collect rain water.

In addition, the department says it will be doing its part to control mosquito populations and reduce risk, including everyone's two favorite "cides:" larviciding and adulticiding, in targeted public properties. Residents are also encouraged to call the Health Department at 610-278-5117 if they think they have a problem on their hands.

Those who wish to stay on top of spraying alerts should sign-up for "Health Alerts" on the ReadyNotify service at https://montco.alertpa.org.

In addition, the release gives the following tips to further reduce exposure to mosquitos and West Nile:

• Survey your property and dispose of containers that can collect standing water such as: old tires, cans, bottles, buckets, toys.
• After it rains empty any plant containers, bird baths, flowerpots, kiddie pools and pool covers to keep water from collecting in these items.
• Make sure roof gutters drain properly and rooftops are free of standing water.
• Clean and chlorinate swimming pools, outdoor saunas and hot tubs. Keep them empty and covered if not in use; drain water that collects in pool covers.
• Drill several holes in the bottom of recycling buckets so water can drain from them. Trash containers should be covered so no rain can accumulate in them.
• Use an approved mosquito repellant when outdoors in areas where mosquitoes are active. Apply insect repellent sparingly to exposed skin. FOLLOW THE LABEL DIRECTIONS CAREFULLY. Do NOT apply to face.
• NEVER ALLOW CHILDREN TO APPLY REPELLENTS. Parents should avoid applying repellents to the hands of children
• Check with a physician before applying repellents to very young children (less than 3 years old).
• Avoid mosquito-breeding areas during peak periods of mosquito activity.
• Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants, making sure to cover feet and ankles.
• Discuss any concerns with your private physician.