Mosquitoes have a serious impact on the health, comfort, and economic welfare of people.
According to Pima County, mosquitoes in southern Arizona can spread diseases such as West Nile virus, Dengue and Chikungunya.
As of August 1, 13 cases of travel related Zika virus have been reported in Arizona. Three of these cases have been identified in Pima County.
There have been no cases of locally acquired Zika Virus in Pima County. However, the type of mosquito that could spread Zika virus is present in Arizona, according to Pima County.
Pima County offers the following tips to 'fight the bite':
- Keep mosquitoes off of your body. Wear loose-fitting, light-colored clothing. If you are not wearing long-sleeved pants and shirts, use insect repellent on exposed skin.
- Keep mosquitoes out of your yard. Walk through your yard and check for areas that collect water. Standing water is the ideal place for mosquitoes to breed, so change outdoor pet water daily and replace with fresh water and make sure things like plant containers, tires, or other items are not collecting water.
- Keep mosquitoes out of your house. If you want the fresh air in the evening, feel free to open your windows, but check your window screens for holes and repair immediately. Do not leave doors open if you do not have a screen door to act as a mosquito barrier.
Pima County also provided these reminders:
- Use mosquito repellents that contain DEET, Picaridin, or Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus.
- Repair leaky pipes and outside faucets, and move air conditioner drain hoses frequently.
- Report mosquito breeding problems (e.g. green pools) to (520) 243-7999 (or filling out the feedback form to the right).
So. Much. Rain! Mosquitoes breed in the water left behind. Clear out water around your home! https://t.co/2HlcZrdQsd pic.twitter.com/XzA64roRMw
— Pima County Health (@pchd) August 11, 2016
