Due to the unseasonably wet weather and warmer days, there has been an observed increase in the mosquito population. This is worsened by the presence of mosquitoes with West Nile Virus in the city. As a preventative measure, we have sprayed the entire city.
The Salem Board of Health will continue to work closely with the MDPH and other agencies and are providing information on measures that residents can take to reduce mosquito breeding places as well as protecting themselves from being bitten by mosquitoes.
Residents can protect themselves from mosquito bites by taking a few, common-sense precautions, people can help to protect themselves and their loved ones, especially those who engage in outdoor activity after dusk:
Avoid Mosquito Bites
· 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. Otherwise, take extra care to use repellent and protective clothing.
· Clothing Can Help reduce mosquito bites. Although it may be difficult to do when it’s hot, wearing long-sleeves, long pants and socks when outdoors will help keep mosquitoes away from your skin.
· Apply Insect Repellent when you go outdoors. Use a repellent with DEET (N, N-diethyl-m-toluamide), permethrin, picaridin (KBR 3023), IR3535 or oil of lemon eucalyptus [p-methane 3, 8-diol (PMD)] according to the instructions on the product label. DEET products should not be used on infants under two months of age and should be used in concentrations of 30% or less on older children. Oil of lemon eucalyptus should not be used on children under three years of age. Permethrin products are intended for use on items such as clothing, shoes, bed nets and camping gear and should not be applied to skin.
Mosquito-Proof Your Home
· 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 getting rid of 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 - Some mosquitoes like to come indoors. Keep them outside by having tightly-fitting screens on all of your windows and doors.
Information about WNV and reports of WNV activity in Massachusetts during 2010 can be found on the MDPH website at http://www.mass.gov/dph/wnv. Recorded information about WNV is also available by calling the MDPH Public Health Information Line at 1-866-MASS-WNV (1-866-627-7968).
In SALEM:
CONTACT: Larry Ramdin, Health Agent
TELEPHONE: 978-741-1800
