HERNANDO COUNTY, Fla. — Hernando County Mosquito Control is reminding Floridians to "remain proactive" and protect themselves from mosquito-borne illnesses.
In a news release, the agency said that Florida has seen increases in mosquito-borne disease activity this summer.
"Mosquitoes are stealthy creatures that thrive in every outdoor setting. Our hot, humid, and rainy summer has allowed Florida’s more than 80 species of mosquitoes to thrive," officials stated in the release.
The agency added that many of the mosquitoes in Florida bring "serious health risks" with them, including Dengue fever, Eastern Equine Encephalitis and West Nile virus. One disease, named oropouche, is new to the Sunshine State and is reportedly transmitted by biting midges and some mosquitoes.
"We have already seen reports of West Nile virus infections in humans, Dengue cases on the rise, and now Oropouche emerging as a new threat," mosquito control stated in the release.
While Hernando County Mosquito Control emphasized the threat of mosquito-borne illnesses, they said Florida remains exceedingly safe and accessible to its residents. But, they are still urging Floridians to "take every precaution necessary."
"Tragically, mosquitoes are responsible for more human deaths than any other animal, killing nearly a quarter of a million people globally each year. Mosquitoes also kill livestock and domestic animals, inflicting damage on agriculture and economies," officials said in the release.
Officials also highlighted that South Florida counties saw the largest dengue fever outbreak in more than 75 years while malaria was locally transmitted within the state for the first time in more than two decades.
Here are some tips Floridians can follow to protect themselves from illnesses, which mosquito control calls the three D's of protection:
- Drain – Following a rain or storm, each household and property becomes a resort for mosquitoes looking for a place to lay eggs. Mosquitoes only need a teaspoon of water to develop, so emptying even small accumulations of water outside can make a difference.
- Dress – Wear long sleeves and long pants that are light-colored and loose-fitting. These clothing choices are a deterrent to mosquitoes.
- Defend – Mosquito repellents containing DEET, Picaridin and IR3535 are powerful shields against mosquitoes. If a more natural product is preferred, repellents containing Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus are great options.
