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Prevention

What Can I Do to Prevent WNV?

Prevention measures consist of community-based mosquito control programs that are able to reduce vector populations, personal protection measures to reduce the likelihood of being bitten by infected mosquitoes, and the underlying surveillance programs that characterize spatial/temporal patterns in risk that allow health and vector control agencies to target their interventions and resources.

The easiest and best way to avoid WNV is to prevent mosquito bites.

  • When you are outdoors, use insect repellent containing DEET.  Follow the directions on the package.
  • Many mosquitoes are most active at dusk and dawn.  Be sure to use insect repellent and wear long sleeves and pants at these times or consider staying indoors during these hours.
  • Make sure you have good screens on your windows and doors to keep mosquitoes out.
  • Get rid of mosquito breeding sites by emptying standing water from flower pots, buckets and barrels.  Change the water in pet dishes and replace the water in bird baths weekly.  Drill holes in tire swings so water drains out.  Keep children’s wading pools empty and on their sides when they aren’t being used.