THD Encourages Residents to Remove Standing Water

Trumbull has had a significant amount of rain this weekend. The Trumbull Health Department encourages residents to take precautions to prevent mosquito breeding areas around the home. Mosquitoes need very little water to breed. Remove standing water in wheelbarrows, tires, bird baths, and garbage can lids.

"Homeowners need to remain vigilant in removing standing water near their home to reduce mosquito breeding habitats," said Joan Littlefield, Trumbull Health Department Director of Health. "Because mosquitoes can breed in very little water, remove standing water weekly.

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West Nile virus (WNV) is transmitted to humans by mosquitoes. The common house mosquito, Culex pipien, is considered to be the primary vector. WNV can cause a range of symptoms, from very mild to severe. WNV can cause high fever, headache, neck stiffness, stupor, disorientation, coma, tremors, convulsions, muscle weakness, paralysis, encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) or meningitis (inflammation of the lining of the brain and spinal cord). The elderly and those with compromised immune systems are most at risk. You can reduce your risk of being infected with WNV by using insect repellent and wearing protective clothing to prevent mosquito bites, and removing mosquito breeding habitats.

Follow these tips below to ensure a safe and healthy summer/fall season:

·Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants, when appropriate. Loose fitting, light colors work best.

·Stay in places with air conditioning or use window and door screens to keep mosquitoes outside.

·Use Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) registered insect repellents. When used as directed, EPA registered insect repellants are proven safe and effective, even for pregnant and breast-feeding women. Always follow the product label instructions. Do not use repellent on babies younger than 2 months of age.

·Cover arms and legs of children playing near standing water.

·Cover playpens and carriages with mosquito netting.

·Remove objects that can hold standing water such as tin cans, tires, buckets, or bottles from outside areas around the house.

·Fix holes in screens and attach them properly to windows.

The Trumbull Health Department has a limited number of mosquito 'dunks' available for residents. There is no charge for the dunks and will be available while supplies last. The mosquito dunks will kill mosquito larvae in containers and bodies of water that cannot be removed or emptied. They are effective for up to 30 wet days. Dunks can be picked up at the Health Department during normal business hours, Monday – Friday, from 8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

For more information on mosquito-borne diseases visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website at cdc.gov.

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The Trumbull Health Department is committed to improving the quality of life for all it serves through the promotion of health, prevention of disease, and by assuring a safe and clean environment for our residents. For more information about the Trumbull Health Department call 203-452-1030 or visit trumbull-ct.gov/THD.