An increase in mosquito-borne disease activity so far this year, prompted DHEC on Wednesday to share protective tips.
“Despite the approaching cooler weather, you still need to protect yourself from mosquito bites,” said Chris Evans, entomologist with DHEC’s Bureau of Laboratories. “Mosquitoes can be active in the fall, even after extended periods of cold weather. Bites to humans and other animals from infected mosquitoes can transmit diseases such as West Nile virus, La Crosse encephalitis virus, and eastern equine encephalitis virus, which have been found in higher numbers this year.”
In South Carolina this year, West Nile virus has been detected in 24 birds, 5 horses and 9 mosquito samples, Evans said.
Linda Bell, interim state epidemiologist, said West Nile had been detected in 30 people in South Carolina and three people had died from the infection. Over the last five years, there were less than five cases each year, she said.
Eastern equine encephalitis, which is also transmitted by mosquito bites, has been found in one person and 15 horses this year.
“Our warm autumn weather brings many people outdoors during this time of year to garden, attend sporting events and fall festivals, and enjoy other activities,” Bell said. “It’s very important to continue protecting yourself and your family during these days of warm fall weather to avoid mosquito-borne disease.”
She recommends using insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus or IR 3535; wearing clothing that covers skin; being particularly careful during dawn and dusk when exposure is most common and draining any areas of standing water where mosquitoes lay eggs. DIY solution to west nile virus prevention ...see the full story here
Eastern equine encephalitis, which is also transmitted by mosquito bites, has been found in one person and 15 horses this year.
“Our warm autumn weather brings many people outdoors during this time of year to garden, attend sporting events and fall festivals, and enjoy other activities,” Bell said. “It’s very important to continue protecting yourself and your family during these days of warm fall weather to avoid mosquito-borne disease.”
She recommends using insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus or IR 3535; wearing clothing that covers skin; being particularly careful during dawn and dusk when exposure is most common and draining any areas of standing water where mosquitoes lay eggs. DIY solution to west nile virus prevention ...see the full story here
