How To Protect Yourself As Mosquito Season Begins In Montco

NORRISTOWN, PA — With the weather growing warmer and mosquito season officially upon the Montgomery County area, authorities are offering the public several tips and tricks to stay safe and unbitten in the coming months.

Viruses like West Nile Virus, Zika, and others can be carried by mosquitoes.

There are several simple ways you can protect yourself from insect bites and the spread of infectious diseases, officials with the county's Office of Public Health say.

According to officials:

• Check and repair windows and screens to prevent mosquitoes from entering your home.
• Survey your property and eliminate any standing water, dispose of containers that can collect
standing water such as old tires, cans, bottles, buckets, and 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. Cover trash
containers so rain cannot accumulate in them.
• Since clothing can help reduce mosquito bites, wear long-sleeves, long pants, and socks when
outdoors to help keep mosquitoes away from your skin.
• 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
repellent to the face.

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